| Title | BEYOND BASELOAD: THE FUTURE OF GEOTHERMAL |
|---|---|
| Authors | A. Blair, M. Dunstall, B. Carey, P.A. Siratovich |
| Year | 2018 |
| Conference | New Zealand Geothermal Workshop |
| Keywords | Geothermal, economic development, employment, water access, food security, indigenous engagement, direct use geothermal, resource use, renewable energy |
| Abstract | Historically, the benefits of geothermal energy developments are discussed in terms of megawatts and revenue and these benefits are balanced against the environmental impacts of development. More recently, discussion has expanded into areas such as decarbonisation, community economic development, and cultural significance. While financial benefits are usually an important part of sustainable activities, simple binary thinking that ‘success equals making money’ is not adequate to assess performance. Geothermal developments and their impacts, (both positive and negative), are complex and diverse and require careful consideration; in that all effects should be considered and synthesised into the decision-making process. In New Zealand, The Resource Management Act (RMA) allows for consideration of a wide range of effects, however, discussion is often polarised into ‘binary’ conversations meaning there are two opposing views and one is ‘right’ and one is ‘wrong’. The reality is that opposing points of view can both be correct (e.g. what may be ‘wrong’ for maximising revenue, may be ‘right’ for employment and vice versa). It is essential then to understand the complete benefits and impacts of geothermal developments. Geothermal energy use must be viewed through a more universal lens, in that it can help provide solutions to some of the world’s most pressing problems: limited access to water, lack of food security, decarbonisation, low employment, poverty, economic oppression, and the marginalisation of indigenous peoples (not forgetting it is also an abundant and reliable source of renewable energy). The full value of geothermal development is only obtained when these additional benefits are unlocked. Geothermal is more than a simple substitute for other energy sources, it can change how people live for the better. This paper will discuss the above, providing examples, and discussion on why we should be talking about geothermal differently and how to change the discussion to its inclusive benefits. |