JSR

A steady increase in the use of shallow geothermal energy can be observed worldwide in past years. In order to highlight the necessity of a specific detailed legal framework for shallow geothermal energy systems, an overview of the current legal framework in Spain is carried out in this paper. Findings show complex legislation at the national level and a high diversity among regional governments in Spain. There is no legally binding definition of shallow geothermal energy resources and the deep geothermal approach of the past is embedded in the legislation inherited from 40 years ago. In consequence, the lack of specific legislation makes the licensing process of systems an effective barrier for the further development of the market, thus indicating the need for a common approach. This work highlights the need for a shallow geothermal energy management framework structure and a governance model based on an adaptive management approach, including both management planning and implementation as well as control cycles.

shallow geothermal energy; regulations; legal framework; smart cities; heating and cooling