Geothermal power is one of the more interesting energy sources on this blog. Rather than looking for some external force or power from the sky, geothermal power comes from under the ground. Geothermal power is renewable unlike some of its under the ground fossil fuel relatives (coal, oil, etc.). Geothermal power is harnessed, so no physical material is uprooted or used (after generators are in place). Geothermal energy uses the heat from the inner earth to generate electricity and heat spaces. The largest amount of geothermal energy is harnessed from the edges of tectonic plates. Since the US mid-west is a key region for plate meet-ups, it is a hotspot for geothermal power.
Proponents of geothermal energy promote its cleanliness. Geothermic power plants don’t have a large carbon footprint in comparison to fossil fuel stations. This clean energy is also renewable in the most infinite way. Geothermal energy is based on the heat of the inner earth. Unless extreme landscape or condition changes at harvesting sites occurred, the main upside of geothermic power is its reliability. Other renewable energy sources put the harvesters at the mercy of their availability. The wind isn’t always consistent and the sun can vary in power. The reliability of geothermic power is certain.
the main issue with geothermic power is plant location. Geothermic power plants work best around tectonic plates or hot spots. Unfortunately, this puts many places out of business. In addition, mining near tectonic plates can cause disturbances. Some attribute earthquakes to geothermic mining. The counter-argument to this is that these earthquakes are generally minor. Geothermic power
plants are usually not located near major cities, so their effects are not always detrimental. On a financial basis, geothermic power plants can be very pricy. The average plant can cost anywhere between $2-7 million. Given their small areas of capability in the US, a full geothermic power push is hard to support.
In conclusion, geothermic power is a valuable asset for energy resumes. As for all other renewable energy sources, it’s not perfect. Countries with an adequate budget should take advantage of natural hot spots. Currently, in America, only 0.4% of power comes from geothermic power plants. This extremely low percentage is mainly due to the locational difficulties associated with the plants. Geothermal energy has so many pros but in the end, it is limited by geographical boundaries. Areas that can reap the reward of geothermal power should do so. As for the whole country, geothermal energy just is not feasible for sole reliance.
