Geothermal Energy

Geothermal Basics

Geothermal energy harnesses the heat from beneath the Earth's surface, a process that has been utilized for centuries. Gary Arndt explains that the Earth's internal heat originates from two main sources: primordial heat from the planet's formation and heat from radioactive decay. This heat is trapped due to the poor conductivity of rocks, making it a sustainable energy source for potentially millions of years 1.

Geothermal heat has been used for thousands of years in the form of hot springs.

--- Gary Arndt

The Earth's crust varies in thickness, influencing the accessibility of geothermal energy, which has historically been tapped through natural hot springs and more recently for heating buildings and generating electricity.

   

Historical Applications

Historically, geothermal energy has been harnessed in various ways, from ancient hot springs to modern power plants. Gary Arndt highlights the first industrial-scale geothermal plant established in Larderello, Italy, in 1911, which marked a significant milestone in utilizing Earth's heat for electricity 2.

In 1904, Piero Conti created a geothermal turbine at the Larderello Springs in Tuscany, Italy.

--- Gary Arndt

Today, geothermal power contributes to about 1% of global electricity, with countries like Iceland and the Philippines leading in its use due to their geological advantages.