5 June 2026
The European Geothermal Energy Council (EGEC) welcomes the adoption of the European Commission’s Strategic Roadmap for Digitalisation and AI in the Energy sector, and the opportunity for the geothermal sector to sign a Declaration of Intent with the European Commission, the data centre operators, the energy-related parties and the public authorities.
The Roadmap sends a strong political signal that digitalisation and AI must become central enablers of Europe’s clean energy transition and industrial competitiveness and geothermal is a key solution to allow an affordable transition.
The rapid deployment of AI technologies and cloud computing is expected to significantly increase Europe’s electricity and cooling demand. The Geothermal energy sector is ready to provide an immediate and long-term solutions to these challenges.
Geothermal is:
Unlike many clean technology, geothermal is made in Europe. The resource is local, stable, and shielded from geopolitical shocks, making geothermal uniquely positioned to become a strategic partner for Europe’s future AI and data infrastructure.
Geothermal electricity has a unique value in generating base load electricity 24/7 anywhere in Europe.
Geothermal cooling technologies have already demonstrated strong operational performance in Europe. Existing projects show that geothermal free cooling can dramatically reduce electricity consumption while maintaining reliable year-round operation for high-demand digital infrastructure. Underground technologies also support seasonal balancing for heat and cooling demand, including the storage and reuse of waste heat generated by data centres.
The geothermal sector already uses AI and advancing computing technologies to improve exploration, drilling, reservoir modelling, operations and predictive maintenance. Digitalisation and AI can significantly reduce project development risks and lower the levelised cost of geothermal energy. The sector therefore welcomes the Roadmap’s ambition to strenghten research and innovation for AI applications in the energy sector.
Permitting remains one of the main bottlenecks for geothermal deployment in Europe. Digital permitting platforms integrating geological mapping and environmental assessments could substantially reduce delays and increase investors certainty.
Representing EGEC at the signature with the European Commission and the data centre industry, EGEC board members highlighted:
“On the occasion of this Declaration of Support, we underline the essential role of sustainable power supply for data centres, with geothermal ensuring reliable baseload renewable energy. Maximising waste heat recovery is equally key to integrating data centres into local energy systems. At the same time, strengthening Europe’s manufacturing technologies is strategic to deliver resilient, competitive, and decarbonised digital and energy infrastructure.” – Marco Baresi – VP EGEC
“Today’s signing marks a significant step in turning our Strategic Roadmap on Data Centers into reality. This tripartite agreement demonstrates how collaboration between the European Commission, industry, and energy partners can unlock new opportunities for sustainable digital growth. By integrating geothermal energy into the development of data center infrastructure, we are creating a model that strengthens energy security, supports decarbonization, and enhances our competitiveness in the global digital economy. Together, we are building the foundations for a future where digital innovation and clean energy advance hand in hand.” – Kamila Piotrowska – VP EGEC
“Europe’s energy sovereignty will increasingly depend not only on access to energy resources, but also on leadership in digital technologies and artificial intelligence. As AI transforms how energy systems are designed, operated, and optimized, geothermal energy has a unique role to play by providing reliable, domestic, and low-carbon power and heat that can support the growing energy demands of digital infrastructure. This Strategic Roadmap sets out a shared vision to strengthen Europe’s resilience, competitiveness, and ability to shape its own energy future.” – Carla Barrera – EGEC board member
EGEC therefore is now willing to be among the first signatories of a tripartite agreement on sustainable integration of data centres.
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