Geotermískur

Geotermískur refers to heat originating from within the Earth. This internal heat is a result of radioactive decay of minerals and residual heat from the planet's formation. Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that can be harnessed for various applications, including electricity generation, heating, and cooling.

The Earth's core is extremely hot, and this heat gradually transfers outwards through the mantle and crust. In some regions, volcanic activity and tectonic plate movements bring this heat closer to the surface, creating geothermal reservoirs. These reservoirs contain hot water or steam that can be accessed by drilling wells.

Geothermal power plants utilize this heat to produce electricity. Steam from the reservoir drives turbines connected to generators. The generated electricity can then be fed into the power grid. Geothermal energy is considered a clean energy source as it produces significantly fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels.

Beyond electricity generation, geothermal heat can be directly used for heating buildings, greenhouses, and aquaculture. Geothermal heat pumps also leverage the stable underground temperature to provide efficient heating and cooling for homes and other structures. Iceland is a prominent example of a country that extensively utilizes geothermal energy for both heating and electricity production.