BEIJING, Dec. 1, 2025 — The International Geothermal Standard Committee (“IGSC”) was formally constituted on November 26 in Beijing. Its permanent Secretariat is hosted by Sinopec (HKG: 0386), marking a significant advancement in global geothermal standardization efforts.
Spearheaded by the International Geothermal Association (IGA), the IGSC brings together 30 leading experts from 15 countries as its initial committee members. The committee’s role will be to guide the creation and promotion of unified international geothermal standards, accelerate the implementation of technology, and ensure the robust, sustainable development of the worldwide geothermal industry chain.
“As the global energy landscape undergoes a profound transformation, geothermal energy – being abundant, stable, clean, and low-carbon – is emerging as a critical component of the future energy mix. Harmonized and mutually recognized standards are fundamental to reducing barriers in international cooperation, speeding up technology transfer, and securing a resilient global geothermal supply chain,” commented Mr. Niu Shuanwen, Senior Vice President of Sinopec. “Sinopec is committed to fully supporting the IGSC and translating global consensus into practical standards that achieve tangible results.”
During their meeting, members unanimously approved the IGSC Standard Development Procedures and the 2025–2027 Work Program. Moving forward, the committee plans to systematically develop a comprehensive geothermal standard system. This system will encompass the entire industry value chain, including resource exploration and evaluation, reservoir engineering, drilling and completion, district heating, power generation, and shallow geothermal systems, with a particular focus on processes, methodologies, equipment, and materials.
“With geothermal energy playing an increasingly vital role in the global energy landscape, the industry is experiencing unparalleled growth momentum. The formation of the IGSC transforms a long-standing industry agreement into immediate initiatives,” remarked Mr. Bjarni Pálsson, President of the International Geothermal Association. “By consolidating worldwide expertise in an open and inclusive manner, we will deliver authoritative international standards and guidelines, laying a strong foundation for extensive, efficient geothermal development and making a significant contribution to global climate objectives.”
Sinopec, recognized as China’s foremost developer and operator of mid- and deep-geothermal energy, currently supplies geothermal heating to 126 million square meters of building space. This effort annually offsets the emission of approximately 6.2 million tons of CO₂. The company has been responsible for drafting more than 50% of China’s national geothermal standards and spearheaded the nation’s inaugural IGA international standard. Furthermore, its notable “smoke-free city” geothermal heating initiative in Xiongxian County, Hebei Province, has been featured in the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA)’s global promotional catalog.
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