luonnonlämpöön

Luonnonlämpö, or geothermal energy, refers to the heat originating from within the Earth. This heat is a result of the planet's formation and the radioactive decay of minerals. Geothermal energy can be accessed and utilized for various purposes, including electricity generation and direct heating.

In regions with high geothermal activity, such as volcanic areas or along tectonic plate boundaries, the Earth's heat is closer to the surface. Here, hot water or steam can be brought to the surface through wells. This hot fluid can then be used to drive turbines connected to generators, producing electricity. This process is known as geothermal power generation.

Beyond electricity, geothermal energy is also used for direct heating applications. Geothermal heat pumps, for instance, can be installed in buildings to regulate indoor temperatures. These systems utilize the relatively stable temperature of the Earth just a few feet below the surface. In colder months, they extract heat from the ground to warm the building, and in warmer months, they reverse the process, moving heat from the building into the ground. This makes geothermal energy a sustainable and efficient option for heating and cooling. The accessibility and application of luonnonlämpö vary significantly depending on geographical location and geological conditions.