Renewable energy for the development of rural mountain areas: the potential of geothermal energy in the Pyrenees.
The challenge of the PIROS project is to promote research and innovation in the field of energy transition by assessing, incorporating, and valorizing geothermal energy as a renewable energy source in cross-border mountain areas between Spain, Andorra, and France. The aim is to consolidate knowledge of this resource and highlight its potential as a natural asset of the territory, contributing to the widespread use of geothermal energy, energy sovereignty, and climate change mitigation in the Pyrenees. The ultimate goal is to assess the geothermal potential associated with thermal water systems in the region, to determine the possible uses of this resource depending on the location (electricity generation, heating, or other direct uses) and to evaluate the potential socio-economic impact on sustainable development in these areas. To achieve this, the project proposes an interdisciplinary and innovative methodology that combines geological, geophysical, and hydrogeological studies with the analysis of socio-economic factors. Partners, associated entities, and stakeholders from different territorial sectors will collaborate, ensuring a holistic approach. The results will have a practical and applicable approach, including a protocol on how to exploit these resources. The cross-border nature of the project adds value by integrating knowledge and methodologies from institutions across Spain, Andorra, and France, thereby strengthening and expanding scientific and technical cooperation. All results will be digitized and included in various platforms, including those of POCTEFA. PIROS aims to promote a shift in the perception and use of geothermal energy by establishing scientific and technical foundations for its integration into local energy policies and its sustainable exploitation. The participation of local authorities, energy companies, thermal spas, and the general public throughout the project ensures ownership of and transfer of results to the territory.
Project leader : Antonio Benedicto, projet porté l’Universitat de Barcelona
Funding : Projet européen Interreg POCTEFA de l’Union Européenne
Staff involved at GEOPS : Antonio Benedicto
Collaboration with
Universitat de Barcelona (porteur de projet)
Institut Cartogràfic i Geològic de Catalunya – (Area de recursos geológicos
Consell Comarcal de l’Alt Urgell – (Consell Comarcal de l’Alt Urgell)
Andorra Recerca i Innovació
Centre National de la Recherche Scientifique – Occitanie Est – (Délégation Occitanie Est)