Exploring the challenges, needs, and opportunities for next-generation geothermal in Europe: Insights from the CATF Roundtable in Warsaw 

Next-generation geothermal systems are among the few clean energy options able to deliver abundant, domestic, 24/7 baseload power. Europe was once at the forefront of next-generation geothermal, especially in enhanced geothermal systems (EGS). Since then, progress has slowed. Meanwhile, other regions have advanced through public-private coordination, targeted pilot programs, and shared R&D platforms. Europe is still home to some of the most technically advanced labs and projects in the world. There is a need for stronger coordination across actors. A shared set of policy priorities could help unlock action, and speaking with one voice on the global stage would increase Europe’s influence and visibility in this space. 

On May 14, Clean Air Task Force convened developers, researchers, and policymakers for a closed-door roundtable on the sidelines of the Global Geothermal Energy Summit in Warsaw. The discussion focused on enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), closed-loop systems (AGS), and superhot rock geothermal, which could unlock high-density electricity and heat far beyond conventional resource zones. 

Participants aligned on challenges across permitting, funding, communication, and collaboration. More importantly, they voiced a clear willingness to work together. The energy in the room reflected a shared urgency to connect, coordinate, and act. 

Early-stage innovation needs a better launchpad 

Developers need real-world sites to test tools, improve methods, and validate performance. Participants pointed to Switzerland’s Grimsel Test Site and Bedretto Underground Laboratory as working models. These sites provide controlled environments to run experiments and generate field data before commercial deployment. Europe should prioritise the creation of more geothermal testbeds. Geothermal testbeds should focus on EGS and AGS in challenging environments and enable collaboration across countries and institutions. Without this infrastructure, many technologies will stall in lab conditions. collaboration across countries and institutions. Without this infrastructure, many technologies will stall in lab conditions. 

Responsible permitting must be more consistent 

Permitting delays block projects across Europe. But developers in the room did not call for deregulation. They called for consistency and transparency. The EU can help by identifying these successful approaches and building a suggested framework for other countries to adopt. Governments struggling with slow or inconsistent processes could implement these models to reduce bottlenecks without weakening oversight or safeguards. 

Knowledge flows are disconnected 

Most publicly funded geothermal projects do share data, but often only with funders, or buried in reports that don’t reach broader audiences. The current structure of many public programs does not encourage sector-wide learning or cumulative knowledge-building. As a result, key lessons, technical advancements, and performance data stay siloed. 

More consistent and practical reporting requirements, linked to real outcomes, would help ensure that public support benefits more than just the individual project. Creating a shared data repository, backed by a clear structure for responsible disclosure, would accelerate learning curves and de-risk future projects. 

Public support needs to match market realities 

Many of the funding streams available to next-generation geothermal developers are mismatched with the realities of developing these systems. Requirements such as holding a permit before applying for EU funds lock out earlier-stage innovators. The lack of long-term contracts and risk-sharing mechanisms limits private investment. 

Participants made the case for a more deliberate structure around funding: clear segments for early-stage research, pilot projects, and scale-up. Dedicated programs for next-generation geothermal, such as EGS, AGS, and superhot rock, should form a central part of that structure. 

The EU’s Action Plan needs to back innovation 

EU’s upcoming Geothermal Action Plan, expected in early 2026, is a critical moment. The European Commission must follow through with its release. More importantly, it must clearly back the innovation that will determine whether geothermal can scale beyond traditional zones.  

This means directly supporting innovation as a central part of this plan. This includes the development of EGS and AGS, and these systems in >400°C conditions in order to ensure there remains a vision and pathway to lower cost geothermal energy. These approaches expand the geographic scope of geothermal and offer firm, clean power, exactly the profile needed for a decarbonised energy system. If the EU sidelines these technologies in its strategy, it risks locking out one of the few scalable options for clean baseload power. 

Central and Eastern Europe is already moving. Poland, for example, adopted a national Multi-Year Program in 2022 to integrate geothermal into 114 existing plants and construct 78 new geothermal wells. The plan targets a total capacity of 290 MW by 2040. Over half the PLN 108.5 million investment is backed by national environmental funds. 

Given the growing interest and concrete developments across Member States, EU policy must support this momentum with clear and sustained support for geothermal. Poland’s example demonstrates the increasing interest in this technology, which can accelerate the energy transition. Now is the time for the EU to match this local drive with a policy framework prioritising scalability, innovation, and long-term investment. 

Europe has the pieces, now it needs to move as a team 

Europe has the talent, technology, and motivation to lead on next-generation geothermal, but coordination is still missing. That can change. This roundtable was a first step toward building a more visible and coordinated community of next-generation geothermal leaders in Europe, one that speaks clearly to governments, funders, and the public about what this technology can deliver and what it needs to scale. CATF will continue working with partners across the region to define clear priorities, make opportunities for collaboration, and help turn potential into deployment.