Geothermal power in Italy: A social multi-criteria evaluation

Italy was the first country in the world to exploit geothermal resources for electricity production. In Europe it is still the first country in terms of installed capacity. Currently, the only region in Italy with geothermal power plants is Tuscany. This study focuses on Mt. Amiata, one of the two geothermal areas in Tuscany. In Mt. Amiata a strong opposition to the exploitation of geothermal resources is rising. The context is characterized by contested scientific results regarding crucial issues such as the impact of geothermal exploitation on human health and the conservation of water resources. A social multi-criteria evaluation is proposed to explore the different legitimate perspectives of the actors involved. Scenarios are distinguished in terms of their technology, plant site and installed capacity. Criteria reflect economic considerations, social aspects and environmental concerns. A Condorcet consistent aggregation algorithm is applied and results are analyzed using a sensitivity analysis. The alternative scenarios are evaluated by attaching different weights to the criteria reflecting divergent points of view.