0% of global electricity is generated from Geothermal

Geothermal energy is a sustainable source of power derived from the heat stored beneath the Earth's surface. This form of energy utilizes the constant heat originating from the Earth's core, which is a byproduct of radioactive decay of minerals and the residual heat from planetary accretion. The geothermal reservoirs, often found near tectonic plate boundaries or areas with volcanic activity, provide a clean and abundant energy source that can be harnessed for both direct applications, like heating, and electricity generation, contributing to efforts to decarbonize the global energy system.

Geothermal power plants generate electricity by tapping into the Earth's internal heat through wells drilled into geothermal reservoirs. The extracted hot fluids in the form of steam or hot water are brought to the surface, where they drive turbines connected to electricity generators. The turbines then convert the heat energy into mechanical energy, and finally into electricity. This process is efficient and continuous, supplying base-load power with minimal carbon emissions.

One of the primary advantages of geothermal energy is its low carbon intensity. With an average carbon footprint of 38 gCO2eq/kWh, it competes closely with other low-carbon sources like nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh), and solar (45 gCO2eq/kWh), all of which produce far fewer emissions compared to fossil fuels such as coal and oil. These fossil fuels contribute significantly to climate change and air pollution due to their high carbon intensity of up to 820 gCO2eq/kWh for coal. By expanding geothermal, along with nuclear, solar, and wind, we can substantially reduce greenhouse gas emissions and help stabilize the climate.

Geothermal energy constitutes a small but crucial part of the global electricity mix, currently generating approximately 0.47% of the total electricity consumed worldwide. Its role is significantly pronounced in certain regions, such as Iceland, where it represents 27% of electricity generation. Similarly, in New Zealand, geothermal accounts for 22% of electricity, illustrating the potential for geothermal energy to supply significant portions of low-carbon electricity in geologically suitable areas. Nevada, Costa Rica, and California also benefit from geothermal energy, contributing 8%, 12%, and 4% to their electricity supply, respectively. These examples highlight the potential for expansion of geothermal, alongside nuclear, and solar technologies, to enhance the reliability and sustainability of global electricity systems.

Investing in geothermal energy, as well as expanding other low-carbon technologies like solar and nuclear, is essential for building a resilient and sustainable electricity grid. These energy sources provide a pathway to meet increasing electricity demands driven by electrification, infrastructure development, and the burgeoning field of artificial intelligence, all while minimizing environmental impacts. Prioritizing the growth of clean energy resources ensures that we can secure a future powered by green, reliable electricity. It is imperative that countries across the globe consider embracing and expanding low-carbon energy solutions to achieve a sustainable and clean energy future.