Tajogaite Energía and INVOLCAN Join Forces to Explore La Palma’s Geothermal Potential Tajogaite Energía S.L. has taken a significant step toward assessing the geothermal potential of La Palma by formalising an agreement with the Canary Islands Volcanological Institute (INVOLCAN). The agreement covers surface geothermal exploration and research across 19 mining grids awarded to the company by the Government of the Canary Islands, with a total value of €387,698.50. The initiative does not yet mean that a geothermal power plant will be built or that deep drilling will begin immediately. Instead, it represents an essential early phase: using advanced scientific methods to understand what lies beneath the island’s surface and identify the areas with the greatest potential for future geothermal development. A Strategic Agreement for Canary Islands Energy The collaboration between Tajogaite Energía S.L. and INVOLCAN forms part of the public tender process launched by the Canary Islands Govern...
Tajogaite Energía and INVOLCAN Join Forces to Explore La Palma’s Geothermal Potential
Tajogaite Energía S.L. has taken a significant step toward assessing the geothermal potential of La Palma by formalising an agreement with the Canary Islands Volcanological Institute (INVOLCAN). The agreement covers surface geothermal exploration and research across 19 mining grids awarded to the company by the Government of the Canary Islands, with a total value of €387,698.50.
The initiative does not yet mean that a geothermal power plant will be built or that deep drilling will begin immediately. Instead, it represents an essential early phase: using advanced scientific methods to understand what lies beneath the island’s surface and identify the areas with the greatest potential for future geothermal development.
A Strategic Agreement for Canary Islands Energy
The collaboration between Tajogaite Energía S.L. and INVOLCAN forms part of the public tender process launched by the Canary Islands Government to grant mining rights for the investigation and exploitation of geothermal resources across the archipelago.
Tajogaite Energía was awarded 19 mining grids, and the new agreement will enable specialised scientific work to be carried out within those areas. The aim is to gather detailed information about the geological, geophysical and geochemical conditions of the subsurface.
INVOLCAN, which forms part of the ITER group, will provide technical advice and scientific expertise. The institute has more than 15 years of experience in surface geothermal exploration projects in the Canary Islands and is internationally recognised for its work on volcanic and geothermal systems.
The agreement is significant because it moves the project beyond administrative authorisation and into practical scientific investigation. Tajogaite Energía now has the opportunity to assess whether the land it controls contains conditions that could support a future geothermal resource.
For the Canary Islands, the agreement also represents another step in a long-term effort to explore alternative renewable energy sources. The archipelago depends heavily on imported fuels and faces ongoing challenges in integrating variable renewable energy into its electricity system.
Geothermal energy could offer a complementary solution if viable resources are confirmed. Unlike solar and wind power, geothermal generation is not directly dependent on daily weather conditions, which could make it valuable for improving energy stability.
Where the Research Will Take Place
The 19 mining grids assigned to Tajogaite Energía are located in the western part of La Palma, particularly around the Jedey area, which spans the municipalities of El Paso, Los Llanos de Aridane and Tazacorte.
This location is geologically significant. La Palma is a volcanic island with a complex subsurface structure, and its volcanic history may create favourable conditions for geothermal systems. Heat, fractured rock formations and circulating fluids can all be relevant indicators of geothermal potential.
However, volcanic activity alone does not guarantee that a commercially viable geothermal resource exists. A successful geothermal project requires the right combination of heat, permeability, water or geothermal fluids, and a geological structure capable of sustaining energy extraction over time.
The western area of La Palma has attracted attention because of its volcanic setting and the possibility that underground heat and fluids may be present. Still, scientists must carry out detailed studies before drawing conclusions about the feasibility of any future project.
Surface exploration allows researchers to collect evidence without immediately disturbing the subsurface through deep drilling. This makes it an important first stage for assessing both technical potential and environmental risk.
What the Exploration Will Involve
The research programme will focus on surface geothermal exploration using innovative geophysical and geochemical techniques. These methods allow scientists to study the subsurface without immediately resorting to deep drilling.
Geophysical surveys can help identify underground structures, fractures, electrical resistivity anomalies and possible pathways for geothermal fluids. Geochemical analysis can detect gases, thermal anomalies and chemical signatures that may indicate geothermal activity.
The work may include techniques such as magnetotellurics, passive seismic monitoring, microgravity measurements, spontaneous potential surveys, diffuse gas emission studies and hydrogeochemical analysis. These approaches are commonly used in geothermal exploration programmes around the world.
Magnetotelluric surveys measure variations in the Earth’s natural electromagnetic fields to estimate the electrical resistivity of underground rocks. Lower resistivity can sometimes indicate the presence of fluids, clay-rich layers or geothermally altered materials.
Passive seismic methods use natural background vibrations to study the structure of the subsurface. They can help researchers identify fractures, faults and other geological features that may influence fluid movement.
Microgravity surveys measure very small variations in gravitational force. These variations can provide information about underground density changes, which may be linked to geological structures or fluid-filled spaces.
Spontaneous potential surveys detect natural electrical potentials in the ground. Such measurements can be useful when investigating fluid circulation and geothermal systems.
Geochemical studies focus on gases and water. By analysing the composition of gases released from the soil or from springs, scientists can look for indicators such as carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulphide, helium or other substances associated with geothermal activity.
Hydrogeochemistry examines the chemical and physical properties of groundwater. Changes in temperature, mineral content or isotope composition can provide clues about underground heat sources and fluid circulation.
Together, these methods create a more complete picture of the subsurface. No single technique can confirm a geothermal resource on its own, but combined results can help identify the most promising areas for further investigation.
Why Surface Exploration Matters
Surface exploration is the first major stage in any geothermal development project. Before expensive deep wells are drilled, researchers need to establish whether the underground conditions are likely to support a viable geothermal system.
This stage involves collecting and interpreting data on temperature, rock properties, fluid circulation, geological fractures and heat sources. It helps reduce uncertainty and allows developers to make more informed decisions about where to focus future investment.
Deep geothermal exploration wells can be costly and technically demanding. By carrying out detailed surface studies first, Tajogaite Energía and INVOLCAN aim to improve the chances that any future drilling will be carried out in the most promising locations.
The process also helps avoid unnecessary disturbance of land. If surface data show that an area has limited geothermal potential, developers can avoid committing resources to deeper exploration in that location.
Conversely, if the studies identify strong indicators of geothermal activity, the results can guide the design and positioning of future exploration wells. This can improve efficiency and reduce both financial and environmental risks.
Surface exploration is therefore not merely a scientific exercise. It is a decision-making tool that helps determine whether a project should move forward, pause or be abandoned.
INVOLCAN’s International Experience
One of the main reasons Tajogaite Energía selected INVOLCAN is the institute’s extensive international experience in geothermal exploration.
INVOLCAN has carried out surface geothermal exploration work in 16 countries across five continents. Its experience includes projects in Ethiopia, Cape Verde, Kenya, Morocco, Rwanda, São Tomé and Príncipe, Ecuador, El Salvador, Indonesia, Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula, Spain, Italy, Iceland, Portugal, Switzerland and New Zealand.
This international background gives the institute access to a wide range of geological, tectonic and volcanic environments. That experience can be particularly valuable in La Palma, where the island’s volcanic setting presents both opportunities and technical challenges.
Working in different countries has allowed INVOLCAN to test and refine exploration methods in diverse conditions. The institute has studied volcanic systems, geothermal fields, fractured terrain and areas with different types of underground fluids.
This experience can help scientists interpret data more accurately in La Palma. Volcanic islands often present complex geological structures, and understanding how similar systems behave elsewhere can improve the quality of local analysis.
The collaboration also allows knowledge developed internationally to be applied in the Canary Islands. Tajogaite Energía has highlighted the value of transferring scientific methods, technical expertise and practical experience from global geothermal projects to the archipelago.
European Projects Supporting Geothermal Research
INVOLCAN’s work is also supported by European research initiatives. The institute is currently involved in surface geothermal exploration projects in Cape Verde, Spain, Italy, Portugal, São Tomé and Príncipe, and Switzerland.
Two major projects stand out: GEOTERMAC and VERNE.
GEOTERMAC is funded through the INTERREG VI-D Madeira-Azores-Canarias programme for 2021–2027. Its objective is to assess the current state of geothermal energy in Macaronesia and São Tomé and Príncipe, while strengthening research, development and innovation in surface geothermal exploration.
The project supports cooperation between Atlantic territories and encourages the exchange of scientific knowledge, technical tools and exploration methodologies.
VERNE is financed through Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions under the European Union’s Horizon Europe programme. These projects help INVOLCAN maintain and expand its scientific capabilities while applying international knowledge to the Canary Islands.
European funding plays an important role in enabling long-term research. Geothermal exploration requires specialised equipment, skilled personnel, data analysis and fieldwork, all of which can be expensive and time-consuming.
By participating in collaborative European projects, INVOLCAN can strengthen its research capacity and ensure that its work in the Canary Islands benefits from the latest international developments.
The Geothermal Potential of the Canary Islands
The Canary Islands have long been considered a region with potential for geothermal energy because of their volcanic origin. The islands’ geological history creates conditions in which heat from the Earth’s interior may be accessible at relatively shallow depths.
Geothermal energy could play an important role in diversifying the Canary Islands’ energy mix. Unlike solar and wind power, geothermal energy is not directly dependent on weather conditions and can potentially provide a more stable source of electricity or heat.
The island councils of Tenerife, Gran Canaria and La Palma have promoted conventional geothermal development since 2017, supporting surface exploration work through INVOLCAN. This latest agreement with Tajogaite Energía continues that broader effort.
The potential benefits of geothermal energy are particularly relevant for island territories. Local energy resources can reduce dependence on fuel imports, improve energy security and support the transition away from fossil fuels.
Geothermal energy can also provide heat as well as electricity. Depending on the temperature of the resource, it may be used for district heating, agricultural processes, industrial applications, tourism facilities or residential heating and cooling.
However, the development of geothermal energy must be approached carefully. Not every volcanic area contains an exploitable geothermal reservoir, and exploration can take years before a project becomes commercially viable.
Why La Palma Is a Priority
La Palma has become a particular focus for geothermal research because of its volcanic nature and recent geological activity. The island’s landscape is shaped by volcanic processes, and its subsurface may contain structures capable of hosting geothermal systems.
The Government of the Canary Islands previously awarded exploration rights across 837 mining grids to six companies: Repsol Exploración, Energía Geotérmica de Canarias, Geotermia La Palma, Tajogaite Energía, Sodepal and Sodescan 2000.
Tajogaite Energía’s agreement with INVOLCAN turns those administrative rights into a practical research programme. The company is now moving from holding exploration permits to commissioning scientific studies that could determine the next stage of development.
La Palma’s volcanic environment may contain heat sources, fractures and fluid pathways that are relevant to geothermal exploration. At the same time, the island’s geology is complex, meaning that results must be interpreted with caution.
The presence of volcanic activity does not automatically mean that a high-temperature geothermal reservoir exists at a depth suitable for exploitation. Scientists must assess whether heat, water, permeability and geological continuity come together in a way that could support energy production.
What Geothermal Energy Could Offer
Geothermal energy uses heat stored beneath the Earth’s surface. Depending on temperature and resource conditions, it can be used to generate electricity, provide heating, support industrial processes or supply heating and cooling systems.
For an island territory such as the Canary Islands, geothermal energy could offer several potential benefits. It could provide a stable, locally available source of energy and reduce dependence on imported fossil fuels.
It could also support the integration of other renewable energy sources. Solar and wind generation can fluctuate depending on weather conditions, while geothermal energy may offer more consistent output if a viable resource is confirmed.
Geothermal energy could contribute to decarbonisation by replacing fossil-fuel-based generation with a renewable source. It could also create opportunities for local technical employment, research and specialised services.
In addition, geothermal heat can be used directly without converting it into electricity. Lower-temperature resources may be suitable for greenhouses, aquaculture, thermal tourism, industrial drying processes or space heating.
These applications could be particularly relevant in island economies, where energy costs and resource efficiency are important issues.
From Research to Exploitation
The current agreement does not authorise the construction of a geothermal plant. Nor does it guarantee that deep drilling will take place. Its purpose is to carry out scientific research that will guide future decisions.
A typical geothermal development process includes several stages. It begins with geological, geophysical and geochemical surface studies, followed by the analysis and integration of exploration data.
Once researchers identify priority areas, the next possible stage is deep exploration drilling. This would allow scientists to measure underground temperatures, pressure, fluid availability and rock permeability directly.
If drilling confirms a viable resource, further studies would assess whether the geothermal system can sustain long-term production. Developers would also need to evaluate technical, environmental and economic feasibility.
Only after these stages could a project move toward the design and construction of an energy production facility. Even then, permits, environmental assessments, community consultation and financing would remain essential.
At every stage, results may show that the project is not viable. Surface exploration is therefore not a promise of exploitation, but a way to determine whether further investment is justified.
The Role of Tajogaite Energía
Tajogaite Energía S.L. is the holder of the mining rights granted for geothermal research in the 19 awarded grids. Its role is to promote and finance the exploration work and, if the results are positive, advance to later stages of investigation.
The company has highlighted INVOLCAN’s international track record as a key asset. By working with the institute, Tajogaite Energía gains access to specialised methodologies and scientific knowledge developed in some of the world’s most diverse volcanic and geothermal environments.
This type of public-private collaboration is common in natural resource projects. A public administration grants exploration rights, while a private company contracts scientific expertise to assess technical feasibility and reduce investment risk.
The agreement also creates an opportunity to build local scientific capacity. Data collected in La Palma can contribute to a broader understanding of the Canary Islands’ geothermal potential and support future research across the archipelago.
Technical and Environmental Challenges
The main challenge for any geothermal project is proving that a usable resource exists. It is not enough to identify hot areas underground. A viable system must have sufficient temperature, permeability, fluid availability and geological continuity to support long-term energy production.
La Palma’s volcanic complexity may create opportunities, but it also makes exploration more difficult. Volcanic fractures can help fluids circulate, but they can also complicate the interpretation of geophysical data and the planning of future wells.
Water availability is another important issue. Geothermal systems often depend on underground fluids, and any future development would need to ensure that water resources are managed responsibly.
Environmental considerations will be equally important. Any move toward deep drilling would need to assess potential impacts on groundwater, landscapes, biodiversity, local communities and existing economic activities.
Public trust will also be essential. Local residents, environmental organisations and public authorities will need clear information about the purpose of the research, the methods used and the potential consequences of any future development.
A Step Forward for Energy Transition
The agreement between Tajogaite Energía S.L. and INVOLCAN is a concrete advance in the Canary Islands’ geothermal agenda. It does not announce an immediate power plant or a large-scale investment, but it activates the scientific work needed to assess the real potential beneath La Palma.
If the studies identify promising areas, the Canary Islands could move closer to a more diversified energy system. Geothermal energy would not replace solar or wind power, but it could complement them by providing stable generation and making use of a resource that is naturally present in the territory.
The success of the project will depend on rigorous science, transparency and careful environmental assessment. Its true value lies not only in the search for energy, but in the opportunity to turn geological knowledge into responsible energy decisions for the future of the Canary Islands.
https://www.iter.es/tajogaite-energia-s-l-confia-en-la-experiencia-del-involcan-para-explorar-el-potencial-geotermico-de-su-dominio-minero/
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