Description: The term ‘geothermal’ refers to everything related to the heat that comes from the Earth’s interior. This heat is primarily generated by the decay of radioactive elements and the residual heat from the planet’s formation. Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that can be used for various applications, from electricity generation to heating buildings. Geothermal energy relies on the ability to extract and utilize this natural heat, which is found at different depths and in various forms, such as steam, hot water, or hot rocks. The temperature of the Earth’s interior increases by approximately 25-30 degrees Celsius for every kilometer of depth, making it easier and more efficient to access this resource in certain regions, especially in volcanic or tectonically active areas. Geothermal energy is considered a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels, as it produces low greenhouse gas emissions and has a relatively low environmental impact compared to other energy sources. Its development and utilization have increased in recent decades, driven by the need to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on non-renewable resources.
History: The use of geothermal energy dates back to ancient times when civilizations used hot springs for bathing and heating. However, the modern development of geothermal energy began in the 19th century when the first geothermal wells were drilled in Italy. In 1904, the first electricity was generated from geothermal energy in Larderello, Italy, marking a milestone in the history of this energy source. Throughout the 20th century, several countries, especially in volcanic regions like Iceland and New Zealand, began developing geothermal plants for electricity generation and heating. In recent decades, technology has advanced significantly, allowing the exploitation of geothermal resources in both volcanic and non-volcanic areas as well.
Uses: Geothermal energy has multiple applications, including electricity generation, building heating, water heating, and agriculture. In electricity generation, geothermal plants convert steam or hot water into electrical energy. For heating, geothermal heating systems can be implemented that use heat pumps to extract heat from the ground and warm indoor spaces. Additionally, in agriculture, geothermal heat can be used for growing plants in greenhouses, thus extending the growing season.
Examples: A notable example of geothermal energy is the Hellisheiði geothermal power plant in Iceland, which is one of the largest in the world and provides electricity and heating to thousands of homes. Another case is the geothermal heating system in the city of Paris, France, which uses hot water from underground to heat buildings. In the United States, The Geysers geothermal plant in California is the largest geothermal power facility in the world, generating a significant amount of electricity for the grid.
