Geothermal
Geothermal energy is heat from the Earth used to produce electricity. It consists of the heat that is stored in underground rocks, soil, and liquids found in the mantle, earth's middle layer. By exploiting the difference between earth's surface and underground temperatures, a geothermal heat pump can heat and cool down a house. More concentrated hydro-thermal reservoirs can be used to heat homes and buildings and also spin turbines. Geothermal energy is both sustainable and clean for the environment.
ADVANTAGES |
DISADVANTAGES |
Low cost at favorable sites (economic) |
Moderate to high local air pollution (environmental) |
Low land use/disturbance (environmental) |
Noise and odor -> H2S (environmental) |
Moderate environmental impact (environmental) |
CO2 emissions (environmental) |
Moderate net energy at accessible sites (economic) |
Cost too high except at the most concentrated and accessible sources (economic) |
Lower CO2 emissions than fossil fuels (environmental) |
Scarcity of suitable sites (environmental) |