On the challenges behind deep geothermal energy: ecological modernization or false solution? A compared case-studies between France and Switzerland
Résumé
Purpose: Global changes require a shift in the energy model, with low emissions of greenhouse gases. Deep geothermal energy promises to be a renewable and limitless energy. As a result, it is presented as a viable energy source in the context of the energy transition. In France, geothermal energy will expand beyond historical regions, specifically the Paris Basin, to develop throughout the country. Geothermal energy is being developed from the ground up in Switzerland. This extension will require the development of new technical and economic models, most notably through the use of industrial demonstrators to adapt to new geological contexts. However, the development of this technology result in a slew of technical issues, including earthquakes, and leads to a lot of controversy. To investigate the political construction of the resource, we use the conceptual framework of Political Ecology and Actor-Network Theory.
Methods: We carried out case studies through fieldwork in France and Switzerland, based on semi-structured interviews and press analysis (qualitative methods and lexicometrics).
Conclusions: A proposition is a more systemic framework of analysis to explain the challenges of deploying deep geothermal energy in less-than-ideal environments. While most discussions focus on social acceptance by local communities, we propose going beyond that. Indeed, we can demonstrate that this is only one of several parameters, including technical frontiers, administrative regulation, political support, and industrial strategies. We also propose a more critical and radical approach: the difficulties of implementing deep geothermal energy reveal the internal contradictions that run through ecological modernization.
Domaines
Géographie
Origine : Fichiers produits par l'(les) auteur(s)
