A. M. 
With the participation of more than 120 experts from 20 countries, El Salvador today inaugurates the first Latin American geothermal congress (LATAM Geothermal Congress – LGC), a historic milestone that consolidates the region’s position as a global leader in the use of geothermal energy, a clean, reliable, and strategic source for the energy transition.
The congress runs from september 22 to 25 and will bring together researchers, energy authorities, international organizations, operating companies, universities, and geothermal associations. During these days, participants will present 66 technical presentations (44 oral presentations and 22 posters) in Spanish, Portuguese, and English, in addition to attending keynote addresses, panel discussions, and workshops as part of the Red de Acción Geotérmica (RAG).
As part of the program, there will be a tour of the Ahuachapán geothermal plant, a symbol of El Salvador’s leadership in geothermal energy. This plant, celebrating 50 years of continuous commercial operation of its Unit 1, is an emblematic example of sustainable production that has inspired the entire region. The visit will allow attendees to experience the facilities firsthand, share lessons learned over half a century, and observe the innovations implemented in geothermal technology.
El Salvador was chosen as the host city for its pioneering history in geothermal energy, leading the region along with Mexico, generating more than 20% of its electricity through geothermal energy. The country has key institutions such as LAGEO and FUNDAGEO, which support and promote professional training, scientific research, the sustainable advancement of the sector, and the local development of communities.
Latin America has an estimated geothermal potential of more than 30 GW. Although only about 4% is currently utilized, geothermal energy is a stable source of electricity 24/7 and, through applications such as geothermal heat pumps, can contribute to urban air conditioning, agriculture, and industrial processes, generating specialized local employment and fostering technological innovation. Furthermore, it helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions and diversify the regional energy mix.
The event is supported by more than 10 sponsors and strategic allies, including academic institutions and companies such as LAGEO, FUNDAGEO, Volcano Energy, Grupo IPS Perforación, Geothermal Rising, Seequent, Slb, Baseload Capital, Upflow Y Women In Geothermal (Wing).
Thanks to their support, scholarships are provided for female professionals and students, promoting gender equity and female participation in a sector historically dominated by men.
Discussions will be held to consolidate past experiences, understand the current state of geothermal energy, and propose a joint regional vision for the advancement of this clean and unlimited energy source. The roundtables will address how to unlock the region’s conventional geothermal potential, geothermal energy beyond electricity, regulatory and financing mechanisms, and next-generation geothermal energy, which will inform the congress’ final declaration. Furthermore, the meeting seeks to promote the creation of the Latin American Geothermal Association, consolidating cooperation and the continuity of regional efforts beyond the event.
With this initiative, Latin America strengthens its position as a strategic player in the global energy transition, demonstrating that innovation, cooperation, and sustainability are key to the future of the geothermal sector.
