The European Union has joined a new global pledge on geothermal energy at the ongoing COP31 talks in Antalya, Türkiye this week. The Global Geothermal Ambition 2050, launched by the Turkish COP31 Presidency in collaboration with the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), aims to collectively scale up global geothermal energy supply for power and heat to 12 times 2025 levels by 2050. The Pledge recognises IRENA analysis indicating that the total primary geothermal energy supply for heat and power could rise from around 2.5 EJ today (Nov 10) to around 31 EJ by 2050, with global geothermal power capacity increasing from 15.6 GW in 2025 to 193 GW over the same period.
The pledge confirms signatories' commitments to strengthen policy frameworks and investment opportunities that will advance the use of geothermal energy. It also refers to research and development, strengthening supply chains, international cooperation and technical assistance, while respecting environmental and social responsibility.
EU Commissioner for Energy and Housing, Dan Jørgensen said:
'Geothermal energy has a key role to play in strengthening Europe's energy security, competitiveness and resilience. It offers a reliable, clean source of heating and cooling, as well as continuous baseload electricity, independent of weather conditions and global energy price fluctuations. By harnessing this clean energy source, we can reduce emissions, support affordable energy for our citizens and businesses, and reinforce our strategic autonomy. By joining this pledge, the European Union reaffirms its commitment to unlocking geothermal energy's full potential as a cornerstone of a more resilient, sustainable and diversified energy system.'
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