Experts highlight the potential of geothermal in Chile’s energy transition

Sky Costanera, Santiago, Chile. (source: Caio Silva under Unsplash license.)

Within the framework of the seminar “Energy, the changes that are required today”, organized by the Association of Solar Power Control (ACSP) , the Association of Small and Medium Hydroelectric Companies (APEMEC) SERC Chile and the Geothermal Council, leading experts in energy highlighted the potential of geothermal energy in Chile’s energy transition.

The meeting was attended by the Minister of Energy, Diego Pardow, who highlighted the need to address energy challenges from the principle of technological neutrality and assured that the State should not privilege a particular technology to advance in the energy transition.

The experts agreed that geothermal energy is a very promising renewable energy source for Chile, given the country’s geographical conditions. In addition, they highlighted that geothermal energy has the capacity to supply energy constantly, regardless of weather conditions, which makes it very attractive in a context of decarbonization of the energy matrix.

Carlos Jorquera, president of the Geothermal Council, affirmed that “geothermal energy has enormous potential in Chile, which has not yet been fully explored. If properly harnessed, geothermal could be an important source of renewable energy, with the ability to consistently and stably supply power, regardless of weather conditions.”

The experts also highlighted the importance of fostering research and development in the field of geothermal energy to unlock its potential in Chile. To achieve this, public policies that encourage investment in research and development of geothermal technologies are required.

The seminar took place on April 3, 2023 in Santiago de Chile, and was attended by leading energy experts and representatives of various organizations in the sector. The discussion focused on the challenges that Chile faces in energy matters and the importance of diversifying renewable energy sources to guarantee the sustainability and stability of the electrical system.

Source: ACSP via our Spanish language platform PiensaGeotermia