The National Environmental Licensing Authority (Autoridad Nacional de Licencias Ambientales / ANLA) of Colombia has released a concept note stating that thermal gradient wells, as part of geothermal energy activities, will not considered subject to environmental licensing.
The note defines thermal gradient wells as thin shallow boreholes, with depths ranging from 50 to several hundred meters, intended to measure at depth and assess the potential of the geothermal resource in the area of interest during exploration. Since these are drilled for the purpose of geological and geophysical observation, they are not subject to environmental licensing and do not require a prior approval from the ANLA.
This procedure can be carried out as a preliminary step or in parallel with a project’s environmental assessment process, without prejudice to any permits for the use and exploitation of natural resources that may be processed before regional environmental authorities, if applicable.
However, the letter emphasizes that other geothermal exploration activities that directly affect the reservoir and may generate significant environmental impacts are still subject to environmental licensing. In these cases, ANLA will assist the owners in complying with regulations on environmental management and the evaluation and monitoring of impacts on aquifers and groundwater systems.
ANLA also mentioned that the agency is cooperating the Government of Iceland to strengthen the knowledge, institutions, and regulations in the development of geothermal energy in Colombia with the goal of adopting international standards and best practices.
Earlier this year, the Government of Colombia announced a list of seven geothermal sites with high geothermal potential that will be made available through a tender.
Source: ANLA
