| Abstract |
The intense tectonic and volcanic activity in the Hellenic area has caused the accumulation of thermal energy in relatively shallow and economically accessible depths. This is manifested as numerous low, medium and high enthalpy hydrothermal systems across the country. The geothermal exploration has, thus far, identified more than forty-five (45) areas of geothermal interest, thirty-two (32) of which are officially characterized as “geothermal fieldsâ€. However, only a small fraction of the proven geothermal resources is exploited. Reaching an estimate of around 260 ÎœWth, the installed geothermal capacity pertains to heating/cooling and recreation/healing uses. The local geothermal market is dominated by the Ground Source Heat Pumps (63% of the total installed capacity), whereas direct uses are limited to balneotherapy and greenhouse heating, followed by small-scale applications, such as soil heating, dehydration and aquaculture. All new and important exploitation projects are realized in low temperature fields of Northern Greece, where the social acceptance and the support from local authorities have created a favorable investment environment. On the other hand, the share of geothermal energy in the electricity production sector remains zero. In July 2018, an international tender announced by “PPC-Renewables†was concluded successfully, with the selection of a strategic partner for the construction of small power plants (5-8 MWe) in four areas (Lesvos, Methana, Nisyros and Milos-Kimolos complex). Regarding exploration, the on-going projects concern further research in known low enthalpy areas (Strymon Basin, Akropotamos, Evros Delta, etc), as well as reconnaissance studies in other promising areas, such as Eastern Thessaly, Lesvos and Lemnos islands. |