Geothermal energy in the Netherlands: current state, challenges and future prospects
conference paper
Geothermal energy production in the Netherlands has seen a gradual but fluctuating growth from 0 PJ in 2007 to 7.49 PJ in 2024. The 7.5 PJ was produced by 23 geothermal systems, mostly providing heat to greenhouses. The use of geothermal energy in the built environment lags behind the horticultural sector. This paper provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of geothermal energy production in the Netherlands, examining geothermal resources, heat
supply and demand, and governmental policies. A production forecast is presented, illustrating the potential development of geothermal energy and identifying key bottlenecks that could impact growth. The forecast indicates that while the Dutch government's target of 15 PJ by 2030 is achievable, the more ambitious goal of 80 PJ by 2050 appears unattainable under current conditions. Key bottlenecks include high investment costs and significant project risks. Furthermore, the deployment of geothermal systems in the built environment remains limited due to various challenges, including the adaption of geothermal systems to provide the baseload of heat demand and the complexity of developing heating grid infrastructure in urban areas.
To mitigate some of these challenges, a portfolio approach to drilling, a CAPEX subsidy and the use of unconventional drilling techniques are possible options. Furthermore, reducing geological uncertainty through continued exploration and adapting regulatory frameworks to support longer project timelines are crucial steps. Lastly, embedding geothermal systems in
providing the baseload of heat demand, possibly with ATES, and clear legislation surrounding ownership of the heating grid infrastructure could support the development of geothermal energy production in the built environment. Overall, while geothermal energy has the potential to
significantly contribute to the Netherlands sustainable energy goals, addressing the identified bottlenecks and uncertainties is essential for realizing this potential
supply and demand, and governmental policies. A production forecast is presented, illustrating the potential development of geothermal energy and identifying key bottlenecks that could impact growth. The forecast indicates that while the Dutch government's target of 15 PJ by 2030 is achievable, the more ambitious goal of 80 PJ by 2050 appears unattainable under current conditions. Key bottlenecks include high investment costs and significant project risks. Furthermore, the deployment of geothermal systems in the built environment remains limited due to various challenges, including the adaption of geothermal systems to provide the baseload of heat demand and the complexity of developing heating grid infrastructure in urban areas.
To mitigate some of these challenges, a portfolio approach to drilling, a CAPEX subsidy and the use of unconventional drilling techniques are possible options. Furthermore, reducing geological uncertainty through continued exploration and adapting regulatory frameworks to support longer project timelines are crucial steps. Lastly, embedding geothermal systems in
providing the baseload of heat demand, possibly with ATES, and clear legislation surrounding ownership of the heating grid infrastructure could support the development of geothermal energy production in the built environment. Overall, while geothermal energy has the potential to
significantly contribute to the Netherlands sustainable energy goals, addressing the identified bottlenecks and uncertainties is essential for realizing this potential
Topics
TNO Identifier
1018386
Source title
European Geothermal Congress 2025, Zurich, Switzerland, 8-10 October 2025
Pages
1-10
Files
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