Helen Robinson

Operations Lead Africa International Geothermal Association

Helen has worked on a range of geothermal projects throughout Africa and globally for almost 10 years. She is passionate about getting the most out of this renewable resource from electricity, heat applications and critical minerals, while ensuring environmental and social governanece are incorporated in to the development process from exploration to deployment. Her work with the International Geothermal Association involves facilitating engagement between the emerging economies of Africa with the global north, promoting geothermal, development and knowledge transfer.

Working as a Senior Hydrogeologist with Wardell Armstrong LLP has allowed Helen to raise the profile of the geothermal potential within the mining, critical metals and oil and gas sectors.

Geothermal is commonly associated with volcanic activity and electricity generation, however, is it becoming increasingly recognised as a way forward to decarbonise heat. With the correct assessments on heat in place, heat demand, resource potential and infrastructural needs, warm water from mining operations can be changed from a waste product to an asset. Implementation of mine water geothermal to mining can contribute to achieving a range of Sustainable Development Goals and National Determined Contributions, demonstrating opportunities for carbon off-setting and encouraging energy investment across the continent.