Ground source heat pump (GSHP) systems are among the most efficient renewable technologies for heating and cooling buildings. However, despite their technical maturity and environmental benefits, their deployment across Europe has often been hindered by fragmented legislation, complex permitting procedures and the absence of harmonised regulatory frameworks. Differences in local and regional regulations have created uncertainty for investors, designers, installers and public authorities, slowing the wider adoption of shallow geothermal energy.

The ReGeoCities project aimed to promote the sustainable development of shallow geothermal energy by analysing and improving the regulatory frameworks governing ground source heat pump systems across Europe. The project evaluated existing legislation, administrative procedures and technical requirements in different European countries, identifying barriers that limited market growth and proposing recommendations to simplify and harmonise permitting processes while ensuring environmental protection and the sustainable use of geothermal resources.

A key outcome of the project was the development of best-practice guidelines and policy recommendations for local and regional authorities responsible for regulating geothermal installations. ReGeoCities also encouraged the exchange of knowledge between public administrations, research organisations and industry stakeholders, helping to improve awareness of shallow geothermal technologies and supporting the implementation of consistent regulatory approaches throughout Europe. By facilitating clearer, more efficient regulations, the project helped reduce administrative barriers and increase confidence among investors and end users. Through its technical studies and policy recommendations, ReGeoCities helped establish a stronger regulatory foundation for the future expansion of ground source heat pump systems in Europe. The project supported the integration of shallow geothermal energy into regional and local energy planning, contributing to the wider deployment of renewable heating and cooling technologies and the transition towards a low-carbon energy system.

The Executive Agency for Competitiveness and Innovation (EACI) has funded the activities of the project by means of the Intelligent Energy Europe program (IEE/11/041).