Integrated use of the underground. new research, development and national policies are needed. ENeRG Position Paper September 2014

The underground is used for multiple purposes including potable water production, rock mining, hydrocarbon exploration and production, geothermal energy production, waste disposal, CO₂ storage, natural gas and other energy storage options. Most commonly the underground is explored and used locally for one, sometimes for several of these resources. Multiple use of the underground may have synergies but also conflicts of interests and may not be supported by available technologies and regulations in many countries.