Geothermal energy

Definition

Geothermal energy is the heat that comes from the sub-surface of the earth, found in the hot water and steam that can be accessed for electricity generation and direct heating applications. This renewable energy source is considered environmentally friendly and sustainable as it has a low environmental impact compared to fossil fuels, making it a vital player in the fight against climate change and environmental degradation.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Geothermal energy has been used for centuries, with ancient cultures utilizing hot springs for bathing and cooking.
2. It is one of the most reliable renewable energy sources because it provides a consistent supply of heat regardless of weather conditions.
3. Countries like Iceland and the Philippines rely heavily on geothermal energy for a significant portion of their electricity needs.
4. Geothermal systems can also be used for district heating, providing warmth to multiple buildings from a central source.
5. The development of enhanced geothermal systems (EGS) allows for geothermal energy extraction even in areas without natural hydrothermal resources.

Review Questions

• How does geothermal energy contribute to reducing environmental degradation?
  • Geothermal energy helps reduce environmental degradation by providing a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. Unlike coal or natural gas, which release greenhouse gases when burned, geothermal systems produce minimal emissions. By harnessing the Earth's natural heat, we can generate electricity and heat with a significantly lower carbon footprint, thus mitigating the impacts of climate change and promoting sustainability.
• In what ways do hydrothermal resources impact the efficiency of geothermal energy production?
  • Hydrothermal resources are crucial for efficient geothermal energy production since they consist of hot water or steam reservoirs found underground. The availability and accessibility of these resources directly influence how effectively we can extract geothermal energy. Regions rich in hydrothermal resources enable more efficient power generation and direct heating applications, while areas lacking these resources may need to explore enhanced geothermal systems to achieve similar efficiency.
• Evaluate the potential challenges facing the expansion of geothermal energy as a mainstream energy source in Latin America.
  • The expansion of geothermal energy in Latin America faces several challenges, including geological uncertainty, high initial costs for exploration and drilling, and competition with other renewable sources. Additionally, regulatory frameworks and investment incentives may not be fully developed, which could hinder progress. However, if these challenges are addressed through better policy support and investment in research and development, geothermal energy could play a significant role in diversifying the region's energy portfolio and reducing reliance on fossil fuels.

Related terms

Renewable Energy: Energy derived from sources that are replenished naturally, such as sunlight, wind, rain, tides, waves, and geothermal heat.

Hydrothermal Resources: Natural occurrences of hot water or steam in the Earth’s crust that can be utilized for geothermal energy production.

Geothermal Power Plant: A facility that converts geothermal energy into electricity by using steam or hot water from the Earth's interior.