From June 2 to 6, Javiera Chocobar and Alberto Albarrán Ordás, from the Geothermal Working Group, took part in the first edition of the Geo-RIN Conference on geothermal energy in Spain and Portugal, held in Benasque (Spain). This inaugural event brought together researchers and professionals to share insights and promote collaboration in the geothermal sector across the Iberian Peninsula.
The conference was structured around two main themes—shallow and deep geothermal energy—and featured a comprehensive program including roundtable discussions, oral presentations, a poster session, and a full day of workshops.
Javiera contributed to the roundtable discussion titled “Shallow Geothermal Energy in Urban and Energy Planning”, where she presented the GeoBoost project, focusing on the challenges and barriers in licensing geothermal heat pump systems. Additionally, she showcased a poster entitled "Exploring the Integration of Geothermal Heat Pumps in Urban Energy Planning”.
Alberto delivered an oral presentation titled “Enhancing Shallow Geothermal Potential Assessment and Management through 3-D Geo-Modeling of Unconsolidated Sediments: Case Studies from Germany”. His talk focused on how detailed 3-D geological modeling of shallow geothermal resources in Munich and the Lower Lech Valley has led to improved resource management and how these methodologies can be transferred to contexts in Spain and Portugal.
Both Javiera and Alberto returned enthusiastic about the opportunity to exchange experiences and foster collaboration between geothermal sectors in Spain, Portugal, and Germany, contributing to the shared goal of advancing sustainable energy solutions.