Geotermaalna

Geotermaalna refers to the exploitation and utilization of heat originating from within the Earth. This internal heat is a consequence of the planet's formation and the radioactive decay of minerals. Geothermal energy can be accessed in various forms, including hot springs, geysers, and underground reservoirs of hot water and steam.

The primary methods for harnessing geothermal energy involve drilling wells into these reservoirs. Steam or hot water extracted from these wells can be used directly for heating purposes, such as in buildings, greenhouses, or industrial processes. Alternatively, the extracted fluids can drive turbines to generate electricity in geothermal power plants.

Different types of geothermal resources exist, categorized by their temperature and state. High-temperature resources, typically found in volcanically active regions, are ideal for electricity generation. Lower-temperature resources are more widely distributed and are primarily used for direct heating applications.

Geothermal energy offers several advantages, including being a renewable and sustainable energy source with a low carbon footprint compared to fossil fuels. It provides a reliable baseload power source, meaning it can operate continuously, unlike intermittent sources like solar and wind. However, the initial investment for drilling and infrastructure can be substantial, and the availability of suitable geothermal resources is geographically dependent. Environmental considerations include potential for sulfur dioxide emissions and land subsidence in some areas.