An online survey to evaluate the awareness and acceptance of geothermal energy among an educated segment of the population in five European and American countries

Abstract

Advances in new technologies and ensuring a sustainable and safe energy supply, put communities in a key position to achieve the transition from conventional to renewable resources, such as geothermal energy. Perception and acceptance have a high impact on the feasibility of energy projects amongst different audiences, which is an important aspect to analyze. For this reason, this study focuses on evaluating the level of awareness and acceptance of geothermal energy within an educated segment of the population in five European and American countries (Canada, Colombia, Chile, Belgium and France) facing different stages of geothermal development. This study was conducted through an online survey, which was targeted to post-secondary students and professionals. Some of the most significant conclusions are: 1) there is a high degree of awareness of geothermal energy among the respondents in Chile and Canada, an average level in Belgium and France, and a low one in Colombia; 2) there is a favorable acceptance of a geothermal project in each country, even when hydraulic stimulation is considered; 3) environmental aspects and community safety are the most important issues that must be addressed to support a pilot geothermal project.