Geothermal Enery Use, country update for Belgium, EGC2025

Geothermal energy is progressively gaining ground in Belgium, with tailored strategies emerging across its three Regions. Wallonia has undertaken a comprehensive modernization of its regulatory instruments, set ambitious renewable heat targets, and initiated large-scale subsurface exploration. Flanders is reinforcing its leadership in deep geothermal by targeting new geological formations, while improving shallow geothermal integration and subsurface governance. In the Brussels-Capital Region, efforts focus on incorporating shallow geothermal into urban energy planning through spatial zoning, technical potential mapping, and system monitoring. A suite of regional and European research projects (e.g. GEOCAMB, DESIGNATE, MORE-GEO, URGENT) have played a pivotal role in de-risking geothermal development by providing interdisciplinary tools that address geological complexity, economic feasibility, and environmental performance. Nevertheless, geothermal energy accounted for only 3.3% of Belgium’s renewable heat production in 2023, highlighting the need for accelerated deployment - especially in deep systems. Achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 will require stronger political commitment, harmonized regulatory frameworks, and targeted financial incentives. Ongoing pilot projects and scientific advances confirm geothermal energy's potential to become a cornerstone of Belgium’s sustainable heating transition.

Proceedings, PDF available

Belgium, Geology