Islands have always been places of resilience. Limited land, finite freshwater resources, isolated electricity systems and dependence on imported fuels have forced island communities to innovate for generations. As climate change accelerates and energy security becomes an increasingly strategic priority, geothermal energy deserves renewed attention—not simply as another renewable technology, but as part of a broader vision for resilient and energy-independent islands.
An island is not simply an electricity grid. It is a living system where energy, water, food, health, nature and the local economy are deeply interconnected. Every investment in one part of that system has the potential to strengthen many others.
Too often we view geothermal solely through the lens of electricity generation. While electricity remains essential, the true opportunity is much larger.
The heat beneath our feet can warm homes, provide heating and cooling, supply clean water, support agriculture, strengthen food security, power local businesses, create wellness destinations, reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels and generate entirely new economic opportunities. One underground resource can simultaneously contribute to multiple Sustainable Development Goals. This systems perspective is particularly relevant for islands.
Every square kilometre matters. Every investment must deliver multiple benefits. Every infrastructure decision should strengthen not only the energy system, but also communities, ecosystems and local economies. That requires a shift in thinking.
Rather than asking, “How much electricity can this geothermal resource produce?” we should begin with a different question: “How can this underground resource create the greatest value for each island?” The answer will differ from one island to another. Some islands may prioritise electricity generation. Others may benefit more from heating or cooling, greenhouse agriculture, desalination, tourism, aquaculture or industrial applications. There is no universal blueprint but there is a common principle: maximise the value of the resource before optimising a single use.
This is why collaboration matters.Governments, utilities, researchers, communities, investors and local entrepreneurs each hold part of the solution. By bringing these perspectives together early, islands can design integrated geothermal developments that are technically sound, economically viable and socially supported.
During the Greening the Islands Academy workshop, it became clear that island communities are not short of ambition. What they often need is access to knowledge, practical experience and trusted partnerships.
The geothermal community has a unique role to play. Beyond drilling wells and developing projects, we can help islands understand the full potential that lies beneath their feet.
By revealing the full value of geothermal resources, islands can strengthen not only their energy independence, but also their economic resilience, water security and long-term prosperity.
Because beneath every island lies hidden value. Our challenge is no longer simply to extract energy. It is to reveal that value- for people, for places and for future generations.
