| Title | Legal Framework and National Policy for Geothermal Development in Iceland |
|---|---|
| Authors | Jonas KETILSSON, Harpa Th. PETURSDOTTIR, Maria GUDMUNDSDOTTIR, Jon A. JOHANNESSON, Jon R. GUDMUNDSSON, Anna L. ODDSDOTTIR, Valdimar EGGERTSSON, Dilja B. STEFANDSDOTTIR, Gudni A. JOHANNESSON |
| Year | 2020 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | Legal, law, energy, regulatory, official, monitoring, geothermal, statistics, policy, Master Plan, Iceland, Europe |
| Abstract | In this paper, a description is given of the national policy, legal framework, official monitoring and accumulation of geothermal energy statistics in Iceland in a global context. The legal framework and amendments to the energy legal framework since 2015 will be reviewed. In particular the rules regarding preparedness and reactions to seismic hazards due to fluid injection into the ground via boreholes and rules for boreholes. It is the policy of the Government of Iceland to increase the utilization of energy resources and hence governmental support was increased for new geothermal based heat utilities by 50% even though 9 out of 10 households are heated with geothermal energy. The Icelandic National Renewable Energy Action Plan in accordance with Directive 2009/28/EC outlines the energy strategy until 2020 and goals of geothermal utilization. In accordance with the plan, electricity generation from geothermal sources is estimated to reach 5.8 TWh and geothermal heat use to 34 PJ in 2020. In year 2018 6 TWh were generated and 33 PJ of geothermal heat used. Geothermal energy plays an important role in providing the nation with clean and reliable energy and is fundamental to the Icelandic economy as well as Icelandic welfare and independence. Effective policy making and official monitoring of geothermal development for sustaining a renewable energy society in Iceland is crucial for maintaining a long-term lifespan of the resource. A population growth of 36% is expected by 2050 and geothermal utilization is estimated to increase by over 70% to almost 50 PJ by 2050. |