1% of global electricity is generated from Geothermal

Geothermal energy is a sustainable and reliable source of energy harnessed from the Earth's internal heat. This naturally occurring heat originates from the decay of radioactive materials, primordial heat from the planet's formation, and other geological processes. Geothermal energy manifests in several forms, such as hot springs, geysers, and volcanic activity, which provide opportunities for direct use in heating, as well as for generating electricity. This clean energy source provides consistent power output, making it a valuable contributor to a low-carbon energy mix.

The process of generating electricity from geothermal energy typically involves tapping into underground reservoirs of hot water and steam. Wells are drilled into these reservoirs to bring the steam or hot water to the surface, where it can be used to drive turbines connected to electricity generators. The three primary methods for generating electricity using geothermal resources are dry steam, flash steam, and binary cycle power plants, each catering to different temperature ranges and geologic conditions. This flexibility in utilization allows for a broader application of geothermal energy across various regions.

A significant advantage of geothermal energy lies in its low carbon emissions, with an average carbon intensity of just 38 gCO2eq/kWh. This makes it a very low-carbon electricity source, especially when compared to fossil fuels like coal and oil, which have carbon intensities of 820 and 650 gCO2eq/kWh, respectively. Geothermal energy's clean profile aligns it with other low-carbon technologies such as wind, solar, and nuclear, which also play critical roles in reducing global carbon emissions. The push for more clean electricity is vital in combating climate change and minimizing air pollution, as fossil fuel use continues to contribute considerably to both.

Despite geothermal's relatively small share in the global electricity generation mix—just over 0.5%—it plays a critical role in certain regions with favorable conditions. Countries like Iceland and New Zealand make extensive use of this resource, generating nearly 28% and 22%, respectively, of their electricity from geothermal energy. Similarly, several states in the United States, including Nevada and California, derive significant portions, 8% and 4% respectively, of their electricity from geothermal sources. Costa Rica also benefits, producing 12% of its electricity through geothermal energy. These examples illustrate how harnessing local geothermal resources can substantially contribute to the low-carbon electricity mix, supporting the transition to a more sustainable future.

The broader adoption and further development of low-carbon energy sources must accelerate to meet increasing global electricity demands, driven by electrification efforts and technological advances like artificial intelligence. In this context, nuclear and solar energy are especially crucial, as they are scalable to meet these rising needs. Together with geothermal energy, they form a robust front in the transition to sustainable, clean electricity production, safeguarding the environment and ensuring long-term energy security. \