Geothermal Energy in Ecuador: Current Conditions and the Need for a Specific Legislation

Abstract

This article identifies the need to enact specific legislation to regulate the development of the electricity generation industry, direct industrial uses and heating from the use of geothermal resources. For this purpose, preliminary and introductory concepts that explain the functioning of geothermal energy and its potential in the region will be addressed, which will allow developing an analysis of the current situation of this industry in Ecuador, including the study of the electrical regulatory framework, and the concession procedures contemplated in the Organic Law of the Public Service of Electrical Energy and its regulations. Finally, a brief comparative law analysis will be carried out to determine certain regulatory criteria that should be considered for a Geothermal Energy Law in Ecuador.