Law No. 4602 on the research, exploitation and management of the geothermal potential of the Country, establishment of the Hellenic Authority for Geological and Mining Research, ownership of natural gas distribution networks.

The purpose of this Law, consisting of five Parts divided into 91 articles, establishes the research, exploitation and management of the geothermal potential of the Country, establishment of the Hellenic Authority for Geological and Mining Research, ownership of natural gas distribution networks. Articles 1 to 24 aim to create the conditions for the rational utilization of the geothermal potential of the Country. The exploitation of geothermal potential is considered to be research, exploitation and management of mining activity. Exploiting geothermal potential as a renewable energy source promotes sustainable development and serves the public interest. By decision of the Minister of Environment and Energy, published in the Government Gazette, it may be stipulated that the right to manage and exploit the geothermal potential overrides the right to exploit other mining or quarrying minerals, of geothermal potential is of greater importance to the national economy.
The geothermal potential is considered as a mineral, according to article 2 of Law No. 210/1973 (A 277). The rights to explore, exploit and manage the geothermal potential belong only to the State. The provisions of the Mining Code and Mining Law in general apply to geothermal power. Authorization of facilities to further exploit the energy product or by-products is not governed by the provisions of Part A (Articles 1 to 24). Jurisdiction to exercise the rights to explore, exploit and manage geothermal potential, except for areas of local interest and PGHI, is under the responsibility of the Ministry of Environment and Energy or the Decentralized Management Coordinator. The concession of the right to explore, manage and exploit geothermal potential in areas of national interest is done after a tender with offers.