The article by the General Director of the Hellenic Survey of Geology and Mineral Exploration (H.S.G.M.E.), Mr. Dionysios Goutis, published on the financial website www.powergame.gr
“The Greek government is actively implementing the national plan to harness our country’s unique geological advantages for the green transition.
‘In the fight against climate change, Greece must be a leader, not a follower,’ emphasized Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis during his recent visit to Astypalaia, where he presented the island’s groundbreaking “energy revolution” project — an initiative that is expected to pave the way for similar ventures in the future.
Beyond any doubt, this marks the environmental direction of the next era. In this context, a series of ambitious initiatives are being rolled out, such as the phase-out of coal alongside the expansion of renewable energy sources, the construction of new offshore wind farms, and the establishment of Greece as a green energy hub for Europe. Particularly noteworthy is the Prime Minister’s initiative to promote pumped energy storage, taking advantage of the country’s distinctive geomorphology.
In this geological and energy challenge, the contribution of H.S.G.M.E. is decisive. With its experienced and specialized scientific and technical staff, the Hellenic Survey of Geology and Mineral Exploration plays a leading role in identifying suitable areas for the development of geothermal fields. The recent completion of the second drilling in Sidirokastro strengthens the National Plan for Climate and Energy, aiming to detect and promote sites that can support geothermal energy development.
Geothermal energy can — and must — become a stable source of clean energy, bringing multiple benefits to society, the economy, and the environment. It can help reduce energy costs for households and businesses and can be applied across a wide range of sectors, from electricity production and agriculture to thermal tourism. Moreover, it will contribute to achieving national climate goals for reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to climate neutrality by 2050.
As the world continues to seek sustainable energy solutions, exploring geothermal potential is crucial for countries with access to such resources. Greece is one of these countries — rich in geothermal potential due to its tectonic setting and volcanic activity. It possesses high-enthalpy geothermal fields on the islands of the Aegean volcanic arc — mainly on Milos and Nisyros — as well as extensive low-temperature geothermal fields concentrated in Northern Greece, particularly in Central and Eastern Macedonia and Thrace, and in the Eastern Aegean islands, especially Chios and Lesvos. This means that geothermal energy could meet a significant part of the energy demand in these regions.
The H.S.G.M.E. of tomorrow stands as a reliable scientific institution with a crucial role in utilizing Recovery Fund resources and supporting the government’s plan for the transition to a low-carbon economy.”