As countries and businesses look for ways to boost renewable energy, geothermal energy is gaining attention. For years, it was overlooked due to a lack of technology to tap into its potential. Now, scientists believe we can access a significant amount of clean geothermal energy to help with the green transition.
Geothermal energy comes from the heat beneath the Earth’s surface. It can be harnessed in different ways, including direct use systems, geothermal power plants, and geothermal heat pumps. These methods either use the Earth’s natural warmth near the surface or drill deep into the ground to reach higher temperatures. This energy can heat and cool buildings and even generate clean electricity.
In the U.S., geothermal energy is starting to find support from various leaders. The industry has been growing, helped along by the Inflation Reduction Act. The Department of Energy’s Geothermal Technologies Office is focused on improving geothermal tech and reducing costs, showing notable progress recently.
Chris Wright, who was appointed as U.S. Energy Secretary, has a background in oilfield services but is passionate about geothermal energy. He supports it as a significant energy source and is eager to promote its development, despite stepping back from any personal business interests in it.
In the U.K., a new geothermal energy storage project was recently announced, funded by Ofgem. This project builds on research at the University of Leeds, focusing on how underground heat can help produce clean electricity. Several universities in the U.K. are diving into geothermal research, including partnerships with institutions in Taiwan to advance studies in the field.
Finland made a splash last year by discovering a geothermal source that could provide energy for 20 million years. The country recently launched its first geothermal heating plant, which will generate enough energy to heat approximately 130 homes each year.
France is also stepping up its geothermal efforts. Last year, the Ministry of Energy Transition outlined a plan focusing on harnessing geothermal energy for heating and cooling across buildings.
In Asia, countries like Indonesia and The Philippines are looking to expand their geothermal resources to lessen their dependency on fossil fuels. Both nations have great geothermal potential due to their volcanic activity, but they face challenges like funding and regulations. Despite this, the International Energy Agency predicts geothermal production in Southeast Asia could grow significantly by 2050.
Indonesia aims to boost its geothermal output by at least 8% over the next few years. The Philippines plans to nearly double its current capacity, highlighting a shared ambition for growth in geothermal energy in the region.
By Felicity Bradstock for Oilprice.com
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Geothermal energy, renewable energy, clean energy, geothermal power plants, geothermal heating, green transition, energy sources, sustainable energy, international energy, energy technology
