| Abstract |
Achieving global climate targets and reducing reliance on fossil fuels requires adoption of renewable energy and deployment of carbon dioxide removal technologies. Geothermal energy has a key role to play in this energy transition. However, while geothermal energy is considered a low-carbon energy source, geothermal plants release greenhouse gases (e.g. CO2, CH4, H2S) that are naturally present in the Earth’s crust and travel to the surface with the geothermal fluids. Changing social expectations, regulations and financial incentives, are driving both existing and new geothermal developments towards net-zero carbon emissions. So, what does net-zero carbon actually mean for a geothermal operation? And how is it different to zero carbon, carbon free and carbon neutral? Where do the emissions come from and what is the natural baseline? Why are gas levels different between geothermal fields, and how do they change over an operations lifetime? What are the options for managing, reducing or using these emissions? In this paper and presentation, we will answer these questions, and more, using examples, data and case studies from New Zealand’s geothermal developments. We will apply an Te Ao Māori (Māori world view) lens to this assessment, sharing learnings from operator engagement with Māori groups in brownfield and greenfield developments. Understanding this rapidly changing technological landscape is particularly important for Indigenous groups who are embracing geothermal energy and exploring indigenous-led clean energy projects to promote economic development and self-determination. |