Geothermal energy is currently considered as the most promising source of energy. Not only is it a renewable type of energy but is also present in most areas, outperforming even some conventional sources in many aspects. Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that comes from the heat that exists within the Earth.
The world is moving toward cleaner energy sources and geothermal energy is increasingly being acknowledged as the greatest substitute. It is better to have a clear idea of geothermal energy pros and cons before installation. Continue reading the blog to know the pros and cons of geothermal energy.
Geothermal Energy - A Brief Note
What is Geothermal Energy? Geothermal energy is the heat created within the earth. The temperature at around 40 feet below the surface is comparatively consistent, although the temperature at ground level varies greatly. That steady temperature is used as a renewable resource by geothermal energy. There are three primary types of geothermal energy:
- Dry steam plants rely on subsurface steam to power turbines directly.
- Flash steam plants use high-pressure hot water to produce steam.
- Binary cycle plants use geothermal heat to warm another liquid with a lower boiling point and it subsequently converts into steam and power turbines.
Pros and Cons of Geothermal Energy:
Like solar energy, geothermal energy is also growing popular in recent times. Have a look at the geothermal energy pros and cons list:
Pros of Geothermal Energy
Here are the pros of geothermal energy:
1. Geothermal Energy Is Reliable
The reliability of geothermal energy is a major advantage of geothermal energy. Even in the absence of energy storage, geothermal energy is far more dependable than solar and wind power. The system won’t experience delay under specific weather conditions because the temperature at depth remains consistent.
It fills the gap between less dependable electricity from other renewable energy sources and extremely reliable energy from burning fossil fuels. The geothermal systems are long-lasting and require less maintenance. Like geothermal energy, there are several new innovations in solar panels you should be aware of. Both the geothermal and solar panels help you save more energy.
2. Environmentally Friendly
Geothermal energy is environmentally friendly than conventional fuel sources. The carbon footprint of a geothermal power plant is low. The pollution through geothermal is relatively minimal when compared to fossil fuels. It is a clean source of energy because it makes use of the natural heat of the Earth.
The geothermal power plants require less space compared to other types of power sources. The geothermal energy results in less surface disturbance. It can provide a stable and constant power source with minimal environmental impact.
3. Low Operating Costs
One of the primary benefits of geothermal energy is its low running costs. Once a geothermal power plant is established, its operating costs are comparatively lower than other countertops. You no need to purchase fossil fuels and it helps you save daily expenses. Maintenance costs are also reduced because geothermal systems have fewer moving parts and are not affected by weather conditions.
The heat pumps are useful in residential applications and they help in reducing heating and cooling costs. These savings can balance the initial installation cost. This energy is the best option for people who wish to save on energy costs.
4. Efficient Land Usage and Small Footprint
Geothermal energy systems are known for their less environmental impact and efficient use of land. Geothermal installation can be done in small spaces and it is very compact compared to other types.
This makes them suitable for both urban and rural environments. Geothermal power facilities can be compact and erected underground, and it frees up surface space for other uses such as farming or construction.
5. Dual Use for Heating and Cooling
Geothermal energy can be used for both heating and cooling systems. It is beneficial for both household and business use. Geothermal heat pumps use the earth’s constant subsurface temperature to operate year-round.
Heat is pulled from the earth to warm indoor spaces during the colder months, and the opposite process occurs during the warmer months to offer cooling by returning heat to the soil. Geothermal energy is the best choice to save space and money. If you want a power for wide range of areas, you can opt for Solar power which is also used by many people to save their cost on electricity. It is helpful for both homes and business.
Cons of Geothermal Energy
Like numerous advantages the geothermal energy has, it also has few disadvantages. Here are the cons of geothermal energy:
1. High Installation Cost
An important disadvantage of geothermal energy is the expensive installation costs. Building a geothermal power plant or a household geothermal heating system requires a considerable initial investment. This includes the expenditures of drilling deep into the earth and buying specialised equipment.
If you are a startup company and feel that installation of geothermal energy is high, you can opt for solar panels to have an eco-friendly environment. Because the government may provide a high subsidy for solar panels.
The high initial investment can be a major problem for many households and businesses. It makes it a less appealing option than other renewable energy sources, such as solar and wind in places where geothermal energy potential is questionable or deep drilling is necessary.
2. Site-specific Installation Challenges
Not every property is suitable for geothermal installation without significant additional costs. Challenging factors include:
- Rocky soil conditions make drilling difficult and expensive.
- Small space that cannot accommodate horizontal loop installations.
- Properties without access for drilling equipment.
- Areas with water quality issues for open-loop systems.
- Historical districts with restrictions on ground disturbance.
3. Disruption of Installation
Installing a geothermal system needs extensive excavation or drilling. It can affect landscaping and property access for several days or weeks. Horizontal systems necessitate trenches 3-6 feet deep throughout wide areas, whereas vertical systems necessitate drilling equipment that can generate several boreholes hundreds of feet deep. The inconvenience of installing geothermal energy can lead homeowners to pay higher electricity bills.
4. Earthquakes
Geothermal energy also runs the risk of triggering earthquakes. This is due to alterations in the Earth’s structure resulting from human activities such as digging. This problem is more prevalent with enhanced geothermal power plants, which force water into the Earth’s crust to open up fissures to greater exploitation of the resource. However, since most geothermal plants are away from population centers, the implications of these earthquakes are relatively minor.
Those mentioned factors will help you understand what is geothermal energy pros and cons.
Bottom Line
Now you have a clear idea of geothermal energy pros cons. Geothermal energy offers a clean and stable source of power with excellent benefits. It is the best substitute for more erratic renewable energy sources like solar and wind because of its capacity to deliver power continuously. Geothermal energy has become a cornerstone of the clean environment. Same like geothermal, the solar panels also have a bright future in this modern world.
Still need to know more information about the pros and cons of geothermal energy, make a visit to Solar Journal Hub. We provide you with various resources to give you a clear idea of geothermal pros and cons. Visit our site regularly to stay updated.
FAQS
Geothermal energy can’t be used everywhere, it depends on local underground heat availability.
A geothermal pump can last between 20 and 25 years.
Geothermal energy is considered virtually unlimited. You can use it based on your requirements.
Regular inspection can help you easily maintain your geothermal energy system. You should also do regular fluid checks.
