The German Geothermal Association (BVG) has broadly welcomed updated plans put forward by Berlin to advance geothermal energy adoption in the country.
It called the new Geothermal Acceleration Act (GeoBG) a “milestone for geothermal energy in Germany” but also proposed various amendments and additions.
The proposals put forward by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy aim to introduce new laws that could simplify and accelerate geothermal projects in Germany and heighten investor security.
With GeoBG, Germany is finally set to create an independent ‘master law’ for geothermal energy, the Association noted in a statement.
It also praised the government for fast-tracking its geothermal plans ahead of the summer recess.
“The fact that the government is taking this issue into account by putting the law on the agenda before the summer break is an important commitment to the expansion of geothermal energy,” it added.
BVG Managing Director Gregor Dilger called the new rules of “paramount importance” in order to expand the role of geothermal energy in the country.
He also called for further measures to achieve equality for geothermal with other forms of renewable energy, such as wind energy.
"Geothermal energy can make a central contribution to climate protection, long-term stable energy prices and security of supply,” said Dilger.
“Geothermal energy is available anywhere and at any time," he added.
"No fuels have to be imported for their use and their supply routes have to be secured, and technologically, we in Germany have all the skills in our own hands.”