11.9.1 Deep Geothermal

Dúnta22 Nol, 2020, 9:00am - 12 Már, 2021, 5:00pm
11.9.1 Deep Geothermal

In 2004, CSA Group completed a study commissioned by SEAI which aimed at identifying the potential resources of geothermal energy in Ireland.  Co. Kilkenny does not have significant potential for deep geothermal, as the study concluded that “the best proven potential for medium and deep geothermal resources in the Republic of Ireland are in the northeast (Navan area) and northwest midlands... and in the west Clare and east midlands areas”[1].

One of the outcomes of the project was to create a series of geothermal maps[2] for Ireland.  Subsurface temperatures increase from south to north in County Kilkenny.  Figure 11.7 below shows the geothermal temperatures at 5,000m. 

Figure 11.7 Geothermal temperatures at 5,000m

However, in the short term it is unlikely that deep geothermal will be utilised in Ireland.  The first deep geothermal plant in Ireland was granted permission by South Dublin County Council in 2011 for Greenogue Business Park in Newcastle.

 

The Council will promote the use of geothermal energy products in new developments, subject to compliance with normal planning and environmental criteria and the Development Management Requirements.

Clár ábhair

Baile