The GEOTHERM-FORA project aims to advance research and innovation (R&I) for the development and use of geothermal systems in Europe by supporting the activities of the European Technology and Innovation Platform on Deep Geothermal (ETIP-DG) and the Deep Geothermal Implementation Working Group (DG-IWG). Both fora bring together geothermal stakeholders from industry, academia and associations covering the entire geothermal value chain. They contribute to a European R&I framework that supports a coordinated development of geothermal technologies and market uptake measures. For example, ETIP and DG-IWG advocate for an increase in European and national R&I budgets, advise on funding opportunities and promote the networking of interested stakeholders.

In the GEOTHERM-FORA project, GFZ represents the European Energy Research Alliance - Joint Programme Geothermal Energy (EERA-JPGE), an association of leading European research institutions. EERA identifies technological trends in the geothermal sector, points out research needs and promotes interdisciplinary and transnational R&I measures. The GFZ will also strengthen cooperation with other European Technology and Innovation Platforms (ETIPs), the SET-Plan initiative for Smart Cities and Regions, but also with educational and training institutions active in the energy sector.