Geothermal energy
GEOTHERMAL ENERGY EXPLAINED
The earth’s core is composed of 3 layers:
- The outer silicate and solid crust
- A highly viscous mantle
- A liquid outer core – this consists of extremely hot magma or melted rock wrapping around a solid iron centre known as the inner core.
The slow decay of radioactive material continually generates extremely high temperatures inside the earth. This heat can be used to generate energy (electricity) and to use it for heating or cooling.
PRODUCTION OF GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
The conversion of geothermal energy into electricity occurs through a geothermal power plant. One way of producing electricity from geothermal energy is by drilling wells into the geothermal reservoirs. The hot water this way emerges the surface of the earth as steam, which is used to drive turbines producing electricity. If this steam is not hot enough (less powerful) it can be still used for heating (buildings) purposes.
Why use geothermal energy?
Geothermal energy is a green source of energy that is renewable. This means two things. First, that the price of this energy source is stable relatively cheap) in comparison to fossil fuels. Second, that it is also a type of “green” source of energy, meaning it does not emit greenhouse gases that are harmful for human and environmental health.