| Title | Global Collaboration Towards Standardization within IEA Geothermal Gas Management Task: Policies, Practices and Innovations |
|---|---|
| Authors | Ketilsson, J.¹, Stefansson, A.², Loboda, J.W.¹, Stefansdottir, A.¹, Egilsson, S.J.³, Fridriksson, Th.³, Sigurdsson |
| Year | 2026 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | |
| Abstract | As the global community transitions towards sustainable energy systems, geothermal energy emerges as a reliable and renewable energy source. Additionally, there is a growing interest in utilizing geothermal gases to produce low-carbon products, such as synthetic fuels, thereby expanding geothermal energy’s role in sustainable systems. A Geothermal Gas Management Task has been formed within the International Energy Agency (IEA) Geothermal Consortium. This multinational initiative aims to develop international guidelines for reporting geothermal gas emissions, and foster knowledge exchange and innovation within the geothermal sector. A global catalogue is compiled that surveys surface measurements of geothermal gas emissions across different geological settings as well as changes due to geothermal utilization. The paper explores measures to mitigate additional emissions due to geothermal production, including reinjecting geothermal gases back into the reservoir in a closed-loop system or utilizing gases for industrial purposes. Drawing upon international experiences in gas management projects across participating countries, this initiative seeks to deepen international collaboration, drive innovation, and contribute to sustainable energy practices. The task will address natural variability of geothermal gas emissions, review existing legal and policy structures, and explore technical applications. The ultimate goal is to provide a methodology for estimating these emissions, facilitating future adaptations that enables and facilitates a transitional change from emissions to innovative solutions. |