The Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) has unveiled a new €20 million fund sourced from the PEACEPLUS programme, dedicated to supporting research and development in both shallow and deep geothermal energy across the Island of Ireland.
This substantial funding has been allocated to the Geothermal Energy Momentum on the Island of Ireland (GEMINI) project, a collaborative effort involving 14 organizations from both Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.
Demonstrating Geothermal Energy’s Potential
GEMINI will showcase the implementation of geothermal energy in five strategic locations: three in Northern Ireland, one in the border region of Ireland, and one in Dublin.
The project will focus on accelerating the adoption of shallow geothermal energy through ground source heat pumps, alongside the development of deep geothermal energy resources.
Decarbonizing Heat for a Sustainable Future
Recognizing the significant contribution of heat production to greenhouse gas emissions, decarbonizing heat is a central pillar in achieving the 2050 net-zero emission targets set by the EU, UK, and Ireland.
GEMINI aims to address this challenge by promoting the renoon of renewable energy sources.
Promoting Peace and Prosperity through Geothermal Energy
The PEACEPLUS Programme, valued at €1.14 billion over five years, aims to foster peace and prosperity across Northern Ireland and the border counties of Ireland.
Managed by the SEUPB, the program supports various sectors, including healthcare, environmental protection, rural regeneration, smart towns, and mental health services. The GEMINI project represents the first cross-border geothermal initiative under this program.
Government Support and Alignment with Decarbonization Goals
Minister for the Economy Conor Murphy MLA welcomed the launch of GEMINI, emphasizing its importance in achieving a just transition towards net-zero emissions.
He highlighted the project’s potential for generating economic opportunities, creating jobs, and addressing regional imbalances.
Minister for the Environment, Climate and Communications, Eamon Ryan T.D., noted that GEMINI aligns with the Irish Government’s July 2023 policy statement on geothermal energy.
This policy outlines a broad approach to regulating geothermal exploration and utilization, promoting sustainable development of geothermal resources to decarbonize heating and cooling in buildings, as well as industrial uses and power generation.