Gjeotermal

Gjeotermal, or geothermal energy, is heat derived from the Earth. The heat originates from the planet's formation and ongoing radioactive decay, stored in rocks and fluids beneath the surface. It can be used for electricity production, direct heating, and other applications.

Geothermal systems typically rely on underground reservoirs of hot water or steam. In power generation, wells bring hot fluids to the surface, where steam or hot water drives turbines. Dry steam, flash steam, and binary-cycle plants represent the main conversion methods, with binary cycles enabling lower-temperature resources.

Direct-use applications include district heating, greenhouse and aquaculture heating, industrial processes, and recreational baths. Geothermal heat pumps use the earth as a stable temperature source for space heating and cooling.

Environmental considerations include lower emissions than fossil fuels, but some projects release trace gases and require careful management of water resources to reinject fluids and maintain reservoir pressure. Ground movement and land-use impacts may occur, depending on scale and geology.

Globally, geothermal energy is most prominent in Iceland, Italy (historic Larderello), and the western United States, with development shaped by geological conditions and government policies. Other notable producers include New Zealand, Japan, and parts of East Africa. Deployment is often tied to nearby demand and resource quality.

Looking ahead, enhanced geothermal systems aim to access hotter rock at greater depths, while low-temperature resources can supply heat through heat pumps and direct-use schemes. Innovations seek to reduce costs, increase efficiency, and integrate geothermal with district heating and renewable electricity grids.