Geothermal Energy

Geothermal: Clean baseload power where resources allow. Direct-use heating/cooling is growing globally.

What & Where

  • High-enthalpy (volcanic zones, power plants)
  • Low-temp (direct-use, ground-source heat pumps)

How It Works

Dry steam, flash, binary cycles for power; ground-source heat pumps for buildings.

Pros/Cons

Pros: Baseload clean power, direct-use heating/cooling.
Cons: Location limits, upfront drilling cost.

Resource Mapping / Feasibility

Resource mapping and feasibility studies are essential for project success.

Policy & Financing Models

  • Risk mitigation funds
  • Feed-in tariffs

Case Studies

  • Iceland: 90% homes heated by geothermal
  • US: Campus heating, 24/7 baseload

FAQs

  • Earthquakes? Rare, but possible with deep drilling.
  • Well lifespan? 20–30 years, with proper management.
Assess geothermal potential Download drilling checklist