PIROS

PRIORITY AND POLICY OBJECTIVE
P1 – Creating a shared space for knowledge and innovation, driving digital transformation and sustainable growth PO1 – A smarter Europe

DURATION:
Start: 01/04/2026
End: 01/04/2029

OBJECTIVE:
The PIROS project's challenge is to advance research and innovation in the field of the energy transition through the assessment, integration and valorization of geothermal energy as a renewable energy source in cross-border mountain areas between Spain, Andorra and France. Specifically, the objective is to develop and implement a methodology to determine the geothermal potential associated with the thermal water systems present in this area, in support of its sustainable development. PIROS aims to promote a shift in the perception and use of geothermal energy, establishing the scientific and technical basis for its integration into local energy policies and its sustainable exploitation.

RESULTS:
Understanding how the hydrothermal systems present in the study area work — for example, the origin of the water, its flow paths and how long it has been circulating, the reservoir temperature and location, and the factors controlling the point of resurgence.
Determining the possible uses of this resource — heat, electricity, spas and other industries — and its socio-economic impact on sustainable regional development.
Contributing to energy sovereignty and climate change mitigation in the Pyrenees through the use of this clean, renewable energy source.

STUDY AREA:
Spain: Baridà (Alt Urgell) and La Cerdanya
France: Tech Valley
Andorra: Les Escaldes

FUNDING:
The PIROS project is 65% co-financed by the European Union through the Interreg VI-A Spain-France-Andorra Programme (POCTEFA 2021-2027). POCTEFA's goal is to strengthen the economic and social integration of the Spain-France-Andorra border area.
ERDF funding: €944,124.55
Total funding: €1,493,733.14

PARTNER ENTITIES:



ASSOCIATED ENTITIES:
L'Energètica
Forces Elèctriques d'Andorra
Govern d'Andorra
Patronat de la Vall del Madriu-Perafita-Claror
Comú d'Escaldes-Engordany
Institut per al Desenvolupament i la Promoció de l'Alt Pirineu i Aran (IDAPA)
Societat Andorrana de Ciències
Grup de Recerca de Cerdanya
Arxiu Comarcal de la Cerdanya
Escola Oficial d'Idiomes de la Seu d'Urgell
Centre de Recursos Pedagògics de l'Alt Urgell
Centre de Recursos Pedagògics de la Cerdanya
Institut d'Estudis Comarcal de l'Alt Urgell
Consell Comarcal de la Cerdanya