Geothermal Technology in Australia: Investigating Social Acceptance

Abstract

Even though the geothermal industry has recently undergone innovative growth and capacity building in all aspects, across wider society there appears to be little knowledge or understanding of geothermal technology and its implications. Focusing on the societal acceptance of geothermal, this paper presents the results of using a participatory action research (PAR) methodology to engage diverse groups within the Australian public. A key finding of the facilitated group process, is that the majority of public have little knowledge or understanding of geothermal technology but are supportive of the technology’s development and use as a clean energy source. The support for geothermal appeared to be stable even though various concerns were raised with the use of this technology (including water usage and seismic activity instigated by geothermal drilling). The results demonstrate the effectiveness of using an engagement process to explore public understanding of energy technologies in the context of climate change. Furthermore, the paper suggests a way forward for governments and industry to allocate resources for greatest impact when communicating about geothermal technology.