#China #Beijing #Sinopec #Geothermal Standards #International Geothermal Association

International Geothermal Standard Committee Launched in Beijing

On November 26, 2025, the International Geothermal Standard Committee (IGSC) was officially established in Beijing, with its permanent secretariat operated by the China Petroleum and Chemical Corporation (Sinopec). This milestone represents a significant step in the global standardization efforts of geothermal energy practices.

The formation of IGSC has been driven by the International Geothermal Association (IGA), bringing together 30 leading experts from 15 different countries as founding members. The committee aims to spearhead the creation and promotion of unified international geothermal standards, accelerating the adoption of technology and ensuring robust and sustainable growth in the global geothermal energy chain.

Niu Shuanwen, Senior Vice President of Sinopec, emphasized the importance of geothermal energy as the world undergoes deep energy transformation. He stated, "Geothermal energy, which is abundant, stable, clean, and low in carbon, is becoming a strategic pillar in the future energy mix. Standardized and mutually recognized standards will play a crucial role in dismantling international cooperation barriers, speeding up technology transfer, and securing a resilient global geothermal supply chain."

During the inaugural meeting, the committee members unanimously approved the IGSC standard development procedures and the work program for 2025-2027. Moving forward, the IGSC will systematically develop a comprehensive geothermal standard system that covers the entire industry chain. This includes resource exploration and assessment, reservoir engineering, drilling and completion, district heating, electricity generation, and shallow geothermal systems, focusing on processes, methods, equipment, and materials relevant to the industry.

Bjarni Pálsson, the president of IGA, commented on the formation of IGSC, saying, "As geothermal energy plays an increasingly vital role in the global energy landscape, the sector is witnessing unprecedented growth. The establishment of IGSC translates the prolonged consensus of the industry into urgent actions." He highlighted that by leveraging a collaborative and inclusive gathering of global expertise, they aim to establish significant international standards and guidelines that would form a solid foundation for large-scale and efficient geothermal development, thereby making a substantial contribution to global climate objectives.

Sinopec, recognized as China's largest developer and operator of medium-temperature and deep geothermal energy, is currently providing geothermal heating to 126 million square meters of building space, resulting in an annual reduction of almost 6.2 million tons of CO₂ emissions. Moreover, Sinopec has been pivotal in drafting over 50% of China's national geothermal standards and has been proactive in pushing forward the first international IGA standard for the country. Notably, its groundbreaking geothermal heating project, the "smokeless city" in Xiongxian County, Hebei Province, has been included in the global promotion catalogue by the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA).

Through these initiatives, the IGSC endeavors to create a cohesive framework for the geothermal industry, emphasizing the need for standardized approaches that ensure safety, efficiency, and sustainability in geothermal energy production. With ongoing developments and international cooperation, the geothermal sector stands on the brink of rapid evolution, poised to make significant strides in addressing global energy challenges and climate concerns.