0% of global electricity is generated from Geothermal

Geothermal energy harnesses the heat generated naturally within the Earth's core to produce electricity. This heat comes from the decay of radioactive materials like uranium, thorium, and potassium, as well as from the original formation of the planet. Geothermal energy is a sustainable resource because the Earth's internal heat is vast and consistently replenished. It is an abundant and largely untapped resource that could significantly contribute to the global energy mix, especially as countries seek to reduce their dependence on fossil fuels and decrease carbon emissions.

To generate electricity, geothermal power plants typically drill wells to access hot water and steam reservoirs located deep underground. This steam or hot water moves to the Earth's surface, where its pressure is decreased to produce steam that spins a turbine connected to a generator. There are several configurations of geothermal power plants, such as dry steam, flash steam, and binary cycle, each utilizing geothermal resources differently but all aimed at converting heat into electricity. Once the water has been used to produce energy, it is often reinjected back into the earth to maintain the pressure of the underground reservoir and ensure a sustainable supply.

One of the primary advantages of geothermal energy is its low carbon intensity. With an average of 38 gCO2eq/kWh, geothermal energy is a considerably greener technology compared to conventional fossil fuels such as coal (820 gCO2eq/kWh) and natural gas (490 gCO2eq/kWh). Alongside nuclear (12 gCO2eq/kWh), wind (11 gCO2eq/kWh), and solar (45 gCO2eq/kWh), geothermal energy represents a crucial part of the portfolio of low-carbon technologies that can significantly decrease our reliance on fossil fuels, thereby combating climate change and reducing harmful air pollution.

Despite currently generating just 0.29% of all electricity consumed globally, geothermal energy plays an important role in the electricity generation mix of many countries. For instance, in Iceland, geothermal accounts for 29% of the electricity consumed, representing a substantial contribution to the nation's energy security and sustainability. Similarly, in New Zealand, geothermal energy generates 20% of the electricity supply, while in Nevada and Costa Rica, it provides around 8% and 13%, respectively. Even in California, known for its clean energy initiatives, 4% of electricity is sourced from geothermal. These figures underscore the potential and effectiveness of geothermal energy when harnessed appropriately.

As we address the urgent need for more low-carbon electricity, the role of geothermal energy, along with other green technologies like solar and nuclear, becomes increasingly critical. These technologies exemplify our best efforts to transition to a cleaner and more sustainable energy future. By expanding the use of geothermal energy and other low-carbon options, we can ensure a robust and reliable electricity supply while minimizing our environmental footprint. The momentum in clean energy adoption is promising, but the pace must be accelerated to meet the growing demand for electricity and to support a future that is both environmentally and economically sustainable.