0% of global electricity is generated from Geothermal

Geothermal energy is a form of low-carbon, sustainable energy derived from the natural heat of the Earth's core. This energy source is accessed by tapping into underground reservoirs of steam and hot water, found primarily in areas with significant tectonic activity like volcanic regions. The heat generated from the Earth’s core can be used directly for heating buildings, agricultural applications, and other industrial processes. By utilizing this naturally occurring heat, geothermal energy systems can significantly reduce reliance on fossil fuels, contributing to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly energy mix.

The generation of electricity from geothermal sources involves drilling wells into the Earth to access geothermal reservoirs. The heat extracted from these reservoirs is used to produce steam, which then powers turbines connected to electricity generators. There are three primary types of geothermal power plants: dry steam, flash steam, and binary cycle. Each of these types utilizes geothermal heat in different ways, but all serve the same basic principle of converting thermal energy into mechanical energy and then into electrical energy. Geothermal energy is reliable and provides a consistent power supply as its availability is not dependent on weather or time of day.

The low carbon intensity of geothermal energy, at just 38 gCO2eq/kWh, highlights its significant role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels such as coal and oil, which emit 820 gCO2eq/kWh and 650 gCO2eq/kWh respectively. In contrast to these high-emission sources, geothermal, along with other low-carbon solutions like wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh), nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), and solar (45 gCO2eq/kWh), plays a critical role in combating climate change and transitioning to cleaner energy systems.

Globally, geothermal energy currently contributes to 0.29% of all electricity consumed, showcasing its potential for growth and contribution to the global energy transition. Certain countries have embraced geothermal more fully, with Iceland generating approximately 29% of its electricity from this source, and New Zealand following closely with 20%. Costa Rica, El Salvador, and Guadeloupe also demonstrate significant commitments to geothermal power, generating 13%, 23%, and 6% of their electricity needs from it, respectively. These examples illustrate how geothermal technology can effectively contribute to clean energy goals within diverse national contexts.

The advantages of geothermal reach beyond its low carbon footprint. It provides a stable, base-load power supply, essential for maintaining grid reliability. Unlike intermittent sources, geothermal offers a constant supply of electricity, similar to nuclear facilities, thereby supporting the consistent energy needs of modern societies and the increasing electrification demand. Additionally, geothermal plants often have relatively small land footprints, minimizing ecological disruption.

The ongoing growth of low-carbon power generation is crucial for future sustainability. By embracing solutions like geothermal, alongside expanding nuclear and solar power, we can effectively reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, mitigating the adverse impacts of air pollution and climate change. As we continue on this path, the ambition for a greener and more sustainable energy future remains within reach, marked by innovation and commitment across sectors and borders.