| Title | Renewable energy or risky technology? – Framings of deep geothermal energy in Germany |
|---|---|
| Authors | C. Benighaus and A. Bleicher |
| Year | 2017 |
| Conference | New Zealand Geothermal Workshop |
| Keywords | Deep geothermal energy, focus groups, public perception, renewable energy, public discourse, framing, frame |
| Abstract | Deep geothermal energy in Germany is seen as a promising source of renewable energy which can contribute environmentally sustainable to the German Energy Transition. Therefore, the public perception of this innovative energy technology is usually positive. However, geothermal technology is not undisputed in Germany and it has been increasingly debated in the last few years. Potential environmental impacts such as earthquakes or damage of buildings are issues of concern, but also aspects such as the efficiency of the technology or other risks of drilling. The intensity of dicussion and the perception of geothermal energy technology differs across regions. Regions can be identified where geothermal projects are opposed, others where the technology is supported and others where such projects are only marginally noticed. We argue that local responses are grounded in different framings of the technology. Frames are understood as collective beliefs and shared meanings that allow individuals to organize their experiences and to make sense of events and issues. By analyzing two case studies, we carve out six frames applied by local actors to geothermal energy that highlight different aspects of the technology – environment and risk-related aspects, economical aspects, aspects related to the transition of the energy system, technological aspects, and aspects of regional development. Some of the arguments given emphasize negative aspects of geothermal energy. The overall recommendation of the participants in both case studies is to further research and develop geothermal energy. This shows general openness on a local level for research to further develop the technology and to answer so-far unanswered questions in Germany. |