The AbanoRitz’s Sustainable Approach
A benchmark for sustainability in the area: the AbanoRitz was the first spa hotel in the region equipped with a calorimeter, which allows it to exploit the thermal gap at the wellhead and the thermal water used for the swimming pools and for the maturation of the mud baths. Thanks to this application of geothermal energy, the hotel drastically reduces its environmental impact, eliminating CO₂ and particulate matter (PM1/PM10) emissions associated with traditional heating systems.
On average, over the last ten years, the AbanoRitz has avoided releasing about 420 tons of CO₂ into the atmosphere each year, compared to a methane boiler, and has saved about 180 tons of oil equivalent annually. These figures highlight the concrete and tangible role of geothermal energy in reducing climate impact.
Virtuous Practices in Waste, Energy, and Cleaning
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Comprehensive waste sorting: all areas of the hotel are equipped for proper waste separation.
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Measured cleaning products: professional detergents are dispensed through dosing systems that ensure maximum efficiency with minimal pollution.
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Active paper recycling: promoted wherever possible.
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Energy efficiency: apart from antique chandeliers, about 90% of the light bulbs in use are low-consumption.
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Sustainable mobility: the hotel parking lot includes charging stations for electric cars, an added value for environmentally conscious guests.
Geothermal Energy: A Broad Yet Underused Potential
Some Global Context
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Globally: Geothermal energy is a powerful and continuous source of low-emission heat, providing energy 24/7 without depending on sun or wind. However, its contribution remains limited, covering only 0.3% of global electricity.
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In Italy: A historic leader with little recent progress. Italy was a pioneer in geothermal energy use, particularly in certain regions (e.g., Tuscany).
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Today, geothermal electricity accounts for only 2% of national electricity production.
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At the European level, Italy ranks eighth worldwide and first in the EU for installed geothermal capacity, and it is a technological hub in Europe for geothermal supply chains and services.
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Looking ahead: According to an Ambrosetti study (2024), harnessing just 2% of geothermal potential within 5 km depth (equivalent to 2,900 TWh) could cover 10% of Italian electricity production by 2050.
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Furthermore, geothermal could meet 25% of final thermal consumption, enabling a 40% reduction in natural gas use.
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Conclusion: The AbanoRitz as a Concrete Example
In short, there is no “mystery” as to why geothermal energy makes up just 0.3% of global electricity: rather, it is a sum of geological, economic, and regulatory factors that have overshadowed one of the most reliable technologies in terms of climate and system impact.
The AbanoRitz is not just a hotel, but a good model of applied environmental efficiency: it harnesses local resources (thermal water), invests in sustainable technologies, and implements green practices in every aspect of daily management. In a national context where geothermal energy still plays a modest role and its potential remains largely untapped, your example shows that yes, geothermal works today—not only for electricity but especially for zero-impact heating.
