Despite being excluded from the Canary Islands Geothermal Strategy for high-enthalpy geothermal energy exploitation, Lanzarote is not being overlooked in the quest for geothermal resources. The company Compañía General de Soporte a la Ingeniería S.L. has submitted a permit to investigate the potential for geothermal energy on the island. This investigation could determine if Lanzarote holds any geothermal resources suitable for electricity generation.
The specific permit, named ICO-1, has been officially accepted by the Canary Islands Government, and covers an area of 93 mining squares across the municipalities of Yaiza and Tías, amounting to approximately 31.76 square kilometres.
The three-year permit will focus on data analysis rather than drilling. The activities will involve the use of gravimetry, Seismic Electrical Tomography (SEDT), and Magnetotellurics (MT) to gather data. These methods do not involve any significant alteration to the environment, requiring only minimal ground support for sensors and recording devices.
The investigation area overlaps with protected regions, including the Los Volcanes Natural Park, La Geria Protected Landscape, and the Special Conservation Zone of Los Volcanes. This necessitates careful planning to avoid environmental disruption.
The economic study attached to the permit indicates an investment of €161,375 primarily allocated for specialised aerial surveys using drones or helicopters equipped with advanced cameras. The data gathered will be analysed alongside satellite imagery.
The Directorate General of Energy's resolution clarifies that the issuance of this investigation permit does not equate to authorisation for drilling or other potentially impactful activities. Any such activities would require a separate, detailed project approval, including environmental assessments where necessary, in line with relevant sectoral legislation.
This investigation is an important step in assessing Lanzarote's geothermal potential, which, if viable, could contribute to the island's renewable energy resources.
