"It could be possible that these [geothermal] systems ... provide secure, 24/7 always-on energy to support and complement our other great sources of renewable energy like wind and solar. So we really see geothermal energy playing a part in the mix."

Dr Sarah Blake, of GEMINI partner Geological Survey Ireland, describes the role geothermal energy can play in our future in a new series broadcast on RTÉ. Futureville Ireland investigates ways in which to plan for urban self-sufficiency in energy and food production.

Watch Futureville Ireland on RTÉ player here.