The Department for the Economy (DfE) has launched a public consultation on proposals to introduce a statutory framework for regulating geothermal energy in Northern Ireland.
Currently, there is no specific geothermal regulatory framework. The proposals aim to establish clear, proportionate rules for larger developments while keeping small domestic systems easy to access.
Scope of the proposals
The framework would focus on larger, deeper or more complex geothermal projects where environmental protection and underground heat management are important.
Small domestic installations, such as horizontal ground loops or low-capacity systems serving a single home, would not require a licence. Larger or deeper projects, including heat storage and systems supplying heat beyond one building, would require a DfE licence.
The changes are expected to mainly affect commercial and public-sector projects rather than households.
Licensing
Developers of licensed projects would need to demonstrate that their plans are safe, technically sound and environmentally responsible.
Licences would:
Public engagement and transparency
The proposals include public participation, with licence applications made available for comment before decisions are taken.
Approved projects, monitoring information and enforcement activity would be published through a new geothermal data portal.
Ownership of geothermal heat
The consultation proposes that geothermal heat below 100 metres depth should be publicly owned, while surface land ownership would remain unchanged.
Have your say
The full consultation document can be accessed here. The deadline for responses is Friday 7 August 2026.
RSUA is considering a response to this consultation. If you would like to share your views, please contact Curtis Large, RSUA Policy and Public Affairs Officer, at curtis@rsua.org.uk
