The projections regarding the utilization of geothermal energy worldwide are optimistic, suggesting that there is short-term technological readiness to harness the benefits of heat in southern Golan, and long-term potential across many regions in Israel.
\nTo assess the feasibility of deriving benefits from geothermal energy in the Golan heights, the Samuel Neaman Institute convened a stakeholder forum to discuss the geothermal geo-physical potential, possible applications, policy requirements, and environmental considerations. Participants included representatives from the Geological Survey of Israel, the Ministry of Energy, the Water Authority, the Ramat Golan Regional Council, and various Israeli companies whose operations are based on heat energy\u2014such as Ormat, Enogia, OASIX, among others.
\nThe discussion reviewed sites in the Golan heights exhibiting geothermal heat flow, along with the technological processes needed to achieve economic viability in exploiting heat-based benefits. Innovation in geothermal applications enables growth in systems designed for electricity generation at lower temperatures than presently utilized, with economic feasibility primarily dependent on improving heat utilization efficiency and drilling depths. Consequently, short-term planning feasibility projects in southern Golan for power generation will expand in the long-term to other areas across the country.
\nFurthermore, additional low-heat applications can be integrated based on regional demand, including thermal energy storage and usage in food production, agriculture (greenhouses and aquaculture), industrial heat processes, building heating, tourism, spa industries, and other uses\u2014forming part of a regional micro-grid planning approach.
\nRegarding challenges, for power generation facilities and water-based applications, it is crucial to prevent adverse impacts on water resources and to conduct comprehensive geophysical and geochemical assessments prior to determining feasibility. Expected flow rates based on existing boreholes are approximately 500-600 cubic meters per hour per bore, contingent upon bore diameter and depth. Excessive water pumping or hydraulic fracturing could trigger seismic activity; hence, geothermal applications must be analysed carefully to avoid the elevation of earthquake risk in the area.
\nRecommendations for future steps include –
\n\u2022 Policy and Regulatory Framework Development \u2013 Israel currently lacks specific geothermal regulations. The Ministry of Energy has begun collaborative efforts with other ministries to develop regulatory documents, standards, and statutory guidelines as required. The Ministry encourages integrating diverse energy sources and applications, with the Chief Scientist\u2019s office serving as the contact point. Coordination with the Water Authority, responsible for issuing drilling permits, is also necessary.
\n\u2022 Focused Contribution to the Region \u2013 The Golan stakeholders express interest in integrating various energy sources in ways that do not harm the region\u2019s biodiversity. Joint assessment of goals and implementation strategies is needed.
\n\u2022 Removing Grid Barriers \u2013 Past experience revealed delays in connecting applications to the grid due to transmission line congestion. Therefore, it is advisable for each project to begin with planning local transmission, distribution, and micro-grid infrastructure adapted to regional needs, to enable subsequent local generation.
\n\u2022 Expanding Stakeholder Engagement \u2013 It is important for the Environment Ministry and local authorities to participate in the transformation processes. This would facilitate the development of local innovation hubs and promote local manufacturing, incorporating the periphery into development initiatives. Additionally, stakeholder engagement in the energy sector will be advanced through EnergyCom starting July 2025, to foster knowledge-sharing and innovative initiatives.<\/p>\n
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