IGA News
August Summary: Islands & Remote Regions: Affordability. Energy Security. Small Land. Big Impact
This month, GLOBAL_GT spotlighted islands and remote regions – settings where every square meter matters, and energy resilience is both essential and achievable.
Key Takeaways:
Geographic constraints make geothermal uniquely appropriate for islands.
Success requires technical excellence, policy innovation, and strategic financing.
Inspiration and innovation – from New Zealand’s tech to Caribbean potential – are converging this August.
Our upcoming workshop aims to turn this potential into action.
Firm Power, Flexible Futures: How Geothermal Can Strengthen Island Energy Systems
Island nations face a distinct energy paradox: they are rich in renewable potential yet structurally dependent on imported fossil fuels. This reliance creates exposure to extreme price volatility, supply insecurity, and economic fragility. In many cases, electricity prices exceed €200–350/MWh, and imported fuels account for 60–100% of primary energy use.
At the same time, climate vulnerability and rising tourism are placing additional pressure on land, infrastructure, and water systems. Most islands do not have the luxury of space for large-scale solar arrays, battery fields, or sprawling desalination plants. What they need is firm, compact, climate-resilient power — and this is where geothermal energy offers a compelling solution.
From Aotearoa to the Islands: How geothermal is powering resilience in remote regions
Jeremy O’Brien, Segment Director for Energy at Seequent, advocates for forward-looking technological solutions that drive the advancement of geothermal projects globally. His expertise bridges technical innovation and practical impact, making him a valuable voice in the energy industry.
Policy Spotlight: Geothermal Energy – Strengthening Island Security in the Caribbean
In a region where imported fossil fuels dominate electricity generation, energy insecurity is more than just an economic challenge — it’s a strategic risk. The Caribbean’s reliance on fuel imports leaves island nations vulnerable to volatile prices, supply chain disruptions, and climate-driven disasters.
Geothermal energy offers a transformative solution.
August Focus: Islands & Remote Regions
Affordability. Energy Security. Small Land – Big Impact.
In August, our GLOBAL_GT campaign shines a spotlight on islands and remote regions—places where geothermal is more than just energy; it’s a pathway to resilience.
Geothermal in Africa: Highlights and Insights from the July Edition
In July, GLOBAL_GT turned the lens on Africa, emphasizing that the continent has entered a geothermal moment. From the historic Kiabukwa mine in the DRC to Kenya’s 1 GW of geothermal power (nearly half its national electricity mix), East Africa is now a global leader in clean, reliable baseload power with the potential to reach 17 GW by 2045.