Electricity generation from geothermal energy
Construction and operation of electricity generation facilities that produce electricity from geothermal energy.
Substantial Contribution to Climate Change Mitigation
The activity generates electricity from geothermal energy. Life-cycle GHG emissions from the generation of electricity from geothermal energy are lower than 100 gCO2e/kWh, calculated in accordance with Recommendation 2013/179/EU or, alternatively, using ISO 14067:2018 or ISO 14064-1:2018.
Geothermal power plants extract heat from underground reservoirs to drive turbines. The life-cycle assessment must account for direct emissions of CO2, methane, and other non-condensable gases released from the geothermal fluid during operation. For high-enthalpy systems with significant non-condensable gas content, abatement technologies such as gas reinjection must be employed to remain below the 100 gCO2e/kWh threshold.
DNSH: Climate Change Adaptation
The activity complies with the criteria set out in Appendix A of the Delegated Act. A climate risk and vulnerability assessment has been conducted, considering seismic risks, changes in subsurface thermal regimes, and water availability over the expected lifetime of the facility.
DNSH: Water and Marine Resources
The activity does not lead to the deterioration of the good status of bodies of water and complies with Directive 2000/60/EC. Geothermal fluids are reinjected into the same reservoir to maintain pressure and prevent contamination of surface and groundwater. Cooling water consumption is minimised through dry or hybrid cooling where feasible.
DNSH: Circular Economy
The activity assesses the availability of and, where feasible, adopts techniques that support reuse of geothermal brine minerals and recycling of plant components at end of life. A waste management plan covers construction, operational, and decommissioning phases.
DNSH: Pollution Prevention
The activity ensures that non-condensable gases (including H2S) released from geothermal fluids are treated using best available techniques. Emissions to air comply with the Industrial Emissions Directive 2010/75/EU. Substances listed in Annex I or II of Regulation (EU) 2019/1021 are not used.