Geothermal energy in Ireland is a promising renewable resource. With advancing technology and government support, it can help meet heating needs and reduce our reliance on fossil fuel reliance.
This blog covers how geothermal energy works, its growing role in Ireland, and steps to get started with projects.
Table of Contents
What is Geothermal Energy?
As we drill deeper into the Earth, temperatures rise – a phenomenon known as the geothermal gradient. This heat comes from the natural decay of radioactive elements in rocks and the residual heat from the Earth’s formation 4.5 billion years ago. Geothermal energy harnesses this heat.
The European Union defines geothermal energy as “energy stored in the form of heat beneath the surface of solid Earth.” Geothermal energy is a clean and sustainable source of renewable energy. Unlike wind and solar power, which can be affected by weather, geothermal energy provides a constant and steady heat source.
2 Types of Geothermal Energy
1. Deep Geothermal Energy (Kilometres Deep)
Deep geothermal energy involves drilling several kilometres underground to access high temperatures. Naturally heated groundwater or steam is brought to the surface and used to generate electricity or provide heating. This type of geothermal energy is most effective in volcanic regions where heat is easily accessible (e.g. Iceland, Italy, and New Zealand). Some countries use natural hot springs for bathing, cooking, and even tourism.
2. Shallow Geothermal Energy (0-200m, Sometimes 500m Deep)
Shallow geothermal energy captures both heat from the Earth’s interior and solar energy absorbed by the ground. It is commonly used for heating and cooling buildings through heat pumps. These pumps circulate a fluid underground in a closed-loop system to absorb and transfer heat. There is excellent potential for shallow geothermal energy in Ireland. In fact, 94% of the land in Ireland is suitable for such applications.
How is Geothermal Energy Used?
Geothermal energy is classified based on temperature levels. High temperature (>150°C) is used for electricity generation. Low temperature (<90°C) is used for various heating applications, including:
- District heating (warming homes and businesses).
- Agriculture and food processing (greenhouses, drying crops, and food preservation).
- Hot water supply (heating homes, hotels, and public buildings).
- Industrial processes (cooling and drying systems).
When it comes to geothermal energy in Ireland, the most common technology is heat pumps. These systems extract heat from the ground, amplify it, and use it for heating. Heat pumps are highly efficient, generating 4x more heat energy than the electricity they consume, making them a smart choice for sustainable heating solutions
Ireland’s Geothermal Potential
The Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland (SEAI) reports that 1/3 of Ireland’s energy demand is for heating. Most of this heating demand is still reliant on fossil fuels. As a result, there is growing interest in exploring geothermal energy in Ireland as a heating resource. Several key developments in recent years signal progress:
→ The Irish Government published the Policy Statement on Geothermal Energy in Ireland as part of the Climate Action Plan.
→ Dublin Airport Authority (DAA) announced it is exploring geothermal energy as a sustainable way to heat and cool airport facilities.
→ Launch of the GEMINI Project, a €20 million initiative which will install Ireland’s first deep geothermal well (2km deep) at TU Dublin’s Grangegorman campus.
Setting Up a Geothermal Energy Project
1. Feasibility & Planning Phase
Currently, the use of geothermal energy in Ireland lacks clear guidelines and legislation. However, potential developers should follow key steps:
- Conduct GIS mapping for feasibility to assess site suitability.
- Perform environmental assessments to identify sensitive areas (e.g. Special Protection Areas or Special Areas of Conservation).
- Check planning requirements through the SEAI Renewable Energy tool or local authorities.
2. Construction & Operational Phase
While there are no official guidelines yet, the following permits and licences may typically be required:
- Planning Permission
- Road Opening/Closing Licences
- Waste Management and Disposal Permits
- Water Abstraction and Discharge Licences
- Tree Felling Licences
- Wildlife Protection Permits (for protected species and breeding areas)
Conclusion for Geothermal Energy in Ireland
Geothermal energy in Ireland has long been an underutilised resource, but momentum is building. With recent government policies, technological advancements, and growing awareness, Ireland is on the path to unlocking its geothermal potential.
Whether you’re a homeowner, business owner, or large-scale developer, renewable energy offers a sustainable, cost-effective alternative to fossil fuels. At Southern Scientific Services, we’re here to support you at every stage, providing:
✅ GIS Mapping – Helping to determine site feasibility.
✅ Habitat & Protected Species Surveys – Preventing project interference with wildlife and ecosystems.
✅ Licencing and Regulatory Support – Providing support to secure permits and maintain compliance.
✅Environmental Testing – Ensuring project operations meet sustainability requirements.
