| Title | Why Geothermal? Analysis of Community Acceptance to Promote Energy Justice and Sustainable Development Strategies in Rural Argentina |
|---|---|
| Authors | Jackson Grimes |
| Year | 2023 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | Community Engagement; Energy Justice; Sustainable Development; Cascaded Uses |
| Abstract | As greenhouse gases continue to rise, demand is increasing for meaningful and workable solutions to combat climate change. Many countries are broadening their energy matrix and exploring opportunities to develop Geothermal Power Production Projects (GPPPs), often in regions where industrialization has not occurred. As the number of GPPPs in the pre-feasibility stage grows, it is imperative that the development of these projects is done in a socially just and equitable manner. Project developers should act early in the planning of renewable energy ventures to adequately inform the public of risks and benefits, while also being cognizant of socio-economic and cultural conditions and priorities of local stakeholders. Historically the large-scale development of geothermal resources has been driven by the need to meet national electricity demands. However, as technologies and our understanding of geothermal has improved new practical applications have emerged. Geothermal heat can serve to employ and empower communities while simultaneously building resilience to the threats of climate change. When decision-makers have a clear understanding of the issue and challenges of a region, they are better equipped to develop a project which fits cultural norms and addresses local conditions. This research investigates social acceptance and understanding of geothermal energy amongst the people of Varvarco, a small, remote, marginalized village in the Argentinean Andes. Varvarco is the closest settlement to Argentina’s highest potential geothermal project, Domuyo. The current design of this pre-feasibility GPPP contains no plans for utilizing direct heat. Through a series of one-on-one interviews and internet surveys a mix of qualitative and quantitative questions were asked to the inhabitants of Varvarco. Data was gathered on the general knowledge of geothermal energy and opinion of its’ development, socio-demographics, and living conditions within the community. Based on the information gathered within this study, I suggest a variety of demonstration and profitability initiatives which may be best suited to local conditions and may continue to enhance public perception of geothermal energy. The findings of this research reveal a population with unequal access to electricity and gas as well as food and water shortages and a lack of employment opportunities. These are conditions which could be improved upon through a responsible design strategy for the Domuyo GPPP. The results of this study are discussed in the context of energy justice in developing economies and expanding the definition of sustainable development. Ignoring the traditions of the people who have lived for generations in zones that policymakers recently set aside for renewable energy enterprises has led to social resistance movements. By opening a dialogue with local stakeholders and embracing their concerns developers can build trust. When local needs are actively incorporated into design solutions, the result can be impactful and balanced GPPPs, where sustainability is not only defined by lack of pollution but by an improvement of life. When contractors work alongside communities early in project planning, site-specific and circular designs can be integrated into the daily routines of the population most affected in the transition to carbon neutrality. |