Current state of development of shallow geothermal solutions in Portugal

Authors

  • Joao Figueira Synege
  • Rita Cerdeira Geogradiente & Synege
  • Pedro Madureira Geogradiente & Synege
  • Luís Coelho MARE – Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Escola Superior de Tecnologia de Setúbal, Instituto Politécnico de Setúbal https://orcid.org/0000-0002-6267-2414

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14195/2184-8394_164_9

Keywords:

shallow geothermal energy, geothermal resources, sustainable development, energy efficiency

Abstract

There is a significant difference in the development of shallow geothermal energy solutions, when we compare Portugal to other European countries where this technology has already seen significant development. Despite this, there has been greater mobilization in this regard and there is already some experience in developing these solutions and successful cases. The sustainable development of this technology’s implementation is of great importance to guarantee installations of quality and create a positive impact on the energy and heating and cooling sectors in Portugal. In this sense, an analysis is made of the current context of governance and development of this type of systems in Portugal, including several areas, namely, legal framework; resource management system; training and certification; project support tools; implementation incentive policies; among others. Some success cases are cited that represent milestones in the development of these systems in Portugal. Finally, some key points are still identified to proceed with the sustainable development of this technology. The absence of adequate regulation and legislation for the use of geothermal resources limits market development, leading to a lack of fiscal, financial and political incentives.

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2025-08-01

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