Description: Hydrothermal energy refers to the energy derived from the heat stored in the Earth’s crust, which exists in the form of steam, hot water, or hot rocks. This type of energy is a renewable and sustainable source, as it utilizes the Earth’s natural heat, which is virtually inexhaustible on a human scale. Hydrothermal energy can be harnessed for electricity generation, heating, and industrial applications. Its main advantage lies in its ability to provide energy continuously, unlike other renewable sources that depend on specific weather conditions. Additionally, hydrothermal energy has a low environmental impact compared to fossil fuels, producing minimal greenhouse gas emissions. This type of energy can be classified into different categories based on the temperature of the geothermal resource: high temperature (over 150 °C), medium temperature (between 30 °C and 150 °C), and low temperature (below 30 °C). Hydrothermal energy not only contributes to the diversification of the energy matrix but also plays a crucial role in the fight against climate change by offering a viable and sustainable alternative to meet the growing energy demand in the modern world.
History: The use of geothermal energy dates back to ancient times when civilizations used hot springs for therapeutic and heating purposes. However, the modern development of hydrothermal energy began in the mid-20th century. In 1904, the first geothermal power plant was built in Italy, in Larderello, which began generating electricity. Since then, technology has evolved significantly, with the construction of geothermal plants in countries such as the United States, New Zealand, and Iceland, which have led the development of this energy source.
Uses: Hydrothermal energy is primarily used for electricity generation in geothermal power plants, where steam or hot water is used to drive turbines that generate electricity. It is also employed in geothermal heating systems, which utilize subsurface heat to warm buildings and spaces. Additionally, it is used in industrial applications, such as energy production in mineral extraction processes and in agriculture for greenhouse heating.
Examples: A notable example of hydrothermal energy is the Geysers geothermal plant in California, which is the largest geothermal power facility in the world. Another example is the Hellisheiði geothermal plant in Iceland, which not only generates electricity but also provides heating to the city of Reykjavik. In New Zealand, the Wairakei geothermal plant has been a pioneer in geothermal energy generation since 1958.
