Changes anticipated in geothermal heat pump legislation in Sweden
Changes are set to be made to the legislation regarding geothermal heat pumps, aimed at protecting the environment and geological resources.
Geological authorities will now measure and register geothermal drill sites.
Municipalities have expressed concerns over challenges related to geothermal drilling. They want to ensure that contamination from drilling operations is prevented.
Certain municipalities have been restricted from issuing permits for geothermal drilling due to significant pollution concerns highlighted last summer.
The requirements for geothermal drilling have not been reviewed since they were introduced in 2012.
In the summer of 2023, a working group was established to assess the existing requirements for geothermal drilling and to make recommendations for potential revisions.
The proposed adjustments primarily aim to empower municipalities with better authority to manage applications for drilling permits and to monitor geothermal drilling activities.
Positive Results
The results from geothermal initiatives have been notably favorable, according to the Ministry of Environment.
Last summer, it was estimated that these measures resulted in a reduction of 8,000 tons of oil imports annually.
The first geothermal installations were introduced in 2008.
The legislative changes have been sent out for public consultation.
Additionally, a proposal for regulations defining conditions for geothermal drilling, registration requirements, and fees has also been circulated for review.
The deadline for public consultation is noon on August 28.