0% of global electricity is generated from Geothermal

Geothermal energy is a clean and sustainable form of energy that harnesses heat from beneath the Earth's surface. This natural heat, which comes from the decay of radioactive materials and the heat left over from the planet's formation, can be captured and used for various purposes, including electricity generation, direct heating applications, and other industrial processes. Geothermal energy is found in regions with high volcanic and tectonic activity, such as Iceland and parts of the United States. Unlike fossil fuels, geothermal energy is renewable and offers a constant, stable source of energy independent of weather conditions, making it a reliable component of any electricity system.

Generating electricity from geothermal energy involves tapping into the geothermal heat stored in the Earth's crust. The process typically involves drilling wells into geothermal reservoirs to bring hot water or steam to the surface. This geothermal fluid is then directed into a power plant, where it powers a turbine connected to an electricity generator. Once used, the cooled water is cycled back underground to be reheated by the Earth's natural heat, ensuring the sustainability of the resource. There are different types of geothermal power plants, including dry steam, flash steam, and binary cycle plants, each suitable for different temperature and geological conditions. These technologies enable efficient conversion of geothermal heat into clean electricity.

Geothermal energy is an important component of the global clean energy mix because of its low carbon intensity. With an average carbon intensity of 38 gCO2eq/kWh, it produces significantly fewer emissions compared to fossil fuels such as coal (820 gCO2eq/kWh) and natural gas (490 gCO2eq/kWh). Geothermal, along with other low-carbon energy sources like nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), solar (45 gCO2eq/kWh), and wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh), plays a crucial role in reducing the carbon footprint of electricity generation. These clean energy sources help mitigate climate change and reduce air pollution, supporting a healthier environment for future generations.

Globally, geothermal energy accounts for about 0.29% of all electricity consumed, which highlights its potential for growth in the clean energy sector. Countries such as Iceland, New Zealand, and Costa Rica demonstrate the viability of geothermal energy, where it contributes significantly to their electricity generation mix. In Iceland, almost a third (29%) of electricity is produced from geothermal sources, while in New Zealand, it accounts for 22%. Costa Rica relies on geothermal for 13% of its electricity. Similarly, in parts of the United States, such as Nevada and California, geothermal energy provides a meaningful percentage of the state's electricity, with 8% and 4%, respectively. These examples reflect the broader potential for geothermal in reducing carbon emissions across different regions.

Beyond geothermal, other low-carbon technologies like wind, solar, and notably nuclear, are indispensable in the quest for a sustainable energy future. Expanding these reliable and clean electricity sources is imperative as the global demand for electricity continues to grow, fueled by ongoing electrification, technological advances, and, increasingly, artificial intelligence applications. Accelerating this transition will not only address pressing environmental challenges but also foster economic growth and energy security. Herein lies the future of electricity: a diverse tapestry of low-carbon resources, interwoven to power a stable, sustainable world.