In his evaluation to the AA correspondent within the scope of October 17 World Geothermal Day, Brommer stated that geothermal energy is a domestic, reliable and sustainable energy source and can reduce foreign dependency.
Stating that geothermal has a unique role in the global energy transformation, Brommer explained that this resource can be used in electricity production, in the heating and cooling needs of cities, in supporting industrial processes and in food production through geothermal greenhouses.
Brommer said, "We must go beyond viewing geothermal merely as an electricity generation technology and consider it as a resource that can support entire energy systems, local economies and communities. The underground offers us the possibilities, but it is above ground that we decide whether and how to use these opportunities." made his assessment.
INVESTMENT AND REGULATIONS ARE REQUIRED
Emphasizing that more investment, regulation and institutional preparation are required to reach the full potential of geothermal energy in the world, Brommer noted that geothermal projects require significant initial investments, and that reasons such as spreading the benefits over decades, risks in exploration activities, and long permit processes can deter investors even in places where geological potential is high.
Brommer stated that governments can make a significant difference by clarifying resource rights, creating transparent licensing processes, developing mechanisms to reduce exploration risks and providing long-term stable investment conditions.
Pointing out that countries need regulatory institutions that understand geothermal resources, financial institutions that know the nature and risks of investment, and public authorities that can coordinate energy and infrastructure planning, Brommer said, "We have spent decades developing scientific knowledge and technical expertise. Now we must be equally effective in transforming this knowledge into policy, investment and practice." he said.
Türkiye STANDS OUT WITH ITS DIVERSITY OF GEOTHERMAL USE
Brommer pointed out that Türkiye is fourth in the world and first in Europe in terms of geothermal energy installed capacity, and said, "Turkey is one of the leading geothermal countries in the world. What makes Türkiye particularly interesting is the diversity of its geothermal applications." made his assessment.
Stating that Türkiye presented the country update at the World Geothermal Congress held in Canada this year, Brommer said:
"Türkiye's experience has been highlighted as an example for countries such as Canada, as it shows that geothermal resources can support not only electricity production, but also district heating, agriculture and local economic development.
I think this is where Türkiye can demonstrate particularly valuable international leadership. Türkiye can not only increase its installed capacity but also demonstrate how geothermal resources can create value in different sectors of the economy. Türkiye's experience in resource development, investment, regulation and direct use practices offers valuable lessons for emerging geothermal markets in Central Asia, the Balkans, Africa and other regions. "The next generation of leadership in geothermal will be measured not only by the amount of electricity produced, but also by the diversity of applications and value created for communities."
Brommer stated that geothermal energy can sometimes be ignored in international energy discussions because it is not as visible as other renewable energy sources, but it can gain more visibility at COP31 and said, "We see COP31, which will be hosted by Türkiye in Antalya, as an important opportunity to bring together the expertise in the field of geothermal with the wider policy and investment circles." he said.
Emphasizing that at COP31, discussions should be moved beyond goals and directed towards implementation, Brommer said, "For this, it is necessary to bring together policy makers, regulatory institutions, development banks, investors and geothermal experts around concrete solutions. The next stage in the development of geothermal will not only be determined by geological potential. What will be decisive will be our collective success in transforming this potential into sustainable investments, infrastructure and social value." he said.
