Geothermal power as key U.S. energy source
A recent study shows that a substantial portion of the electricity required by the United States could be provided by Geothermal power. Some power in the U.S. is already generated by Geothermal systems but the study claims the output could be increased.
Government-funded research into geothermal was very active in the 1970s and early 1980s. As oil prices declined in the mid-1980s, enthusiasm for alternative energy sources waned, and funding for research on renewable energy and energy efficiency (including geothermal) was greatly reduced, making it difficult for geothermal technology to advance. “Now that energy concerns have resurfaced, an opportunity exists for the U.S. to pursue the EGS option aggressively to meet long-term national needs,” Tester observed.
It is used in New Zealand and in Iceland where 17% of the country’s electricity is produced. It offers a renewable alternative to wind and solar systems and a geothermal plant can operate night and day. However, there are possible damaging environmental effects that need to be taken into account.
