Three MEPs from The Left group have asked the European Commission to steer EU policy away from conventional geothermal technologies that emit greenhouse gases and toxic substances, and toward closed-loop systems with near-zero emissions. The question, tabled on 20 April 2026, targets the environmental and health record of Enel Green Power's flash-technology plants at Monte Amiata in Tuscany, which the MEPs say release emissions comparable to or worse than fossil-fuel plants, including ammonia, hydrogen sulphide and mercury.
The written question cites a Regional Health Agency report showing male mortality rates in the area significantly above normal levels. The MEPs contrast this with closed-loop geothermal technology, such as Eavor's, which produces no emissions. They recall that Recital 46 of the Renewable Energy Directive (2018/2001) already states the Commission should facilitate only low-environmental-impact geothermal energy with greenhouse gas savings.
Concrete asks
The MEPs request three concrete actions: draft guidelines steering stakeholders toward low-impact geothermal technologies; allocate dedicated EU funds for such technologies; and propose legislative measures to ensure only low-emission geothermal is promoted. The question does not set numerical targets or deadlines but calls for a clear policy direction.
Policy orientation
The question signals a push to shift EU geothermal support from conventional open-loop flash systems to closed-loop or advanced geothermal systems that avoid subsurface fluid extraction and reinjection. This would tighten the environmental criteria for EU funding and potentially phase out support for projects like Monte Amiata.
Expected follow-up
The Commission must reply within approximately six weeks. Its answer will indicate whether it plans to issue guidelines, propose legislation, or allocate funds to steer geothermal deployment toward low-impact technologies, and whether it considers existing recital language sufficient or in need of reinforcement.