What is Geothermal Energy?
Geothermal energy is heat from the Earth itself. Beneath the rocky surface of our planet is a layer of molten rock and minerals called magma. The flow of magma between the Earth’s core and crust moves the continental plates relative to each other. Rising to the surface through fissures or volcanoes, we more commonly know magma as lava.
If magma is close to the Earth’s surface and its groundwater, it produces hot springs, steam vents and geysers. These are often found in or near the fault zones between the continental plates. The heat emanating from magma, through steam or hot water, is used to generate electricity.
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Technology
- How does Geothermal Energy Work?
- Geothermal energy systems produce electricity using steam turbine generators. Geothermal energy replaces fossil fuels or nuclear reactors in producing steam to run the turbines. Where steam is naturally present it can be used directly. If steam is not present then water or a brine solution, heated by passage through hot rocks underground, is pumped through heat exchangers to turn a low boiling point working fluid into steam for driving the turbines.
- Why is Geothermal Energy the right solution for our needs?
- In high potential geothermal areas utility-grade electrical power can be cleanly, reliably and consistently produced in large quantities using well understood methods without fossil fuels or nuclear reactors. In moderate potential areas a method known as engineered geothermal systems (“EGS”) can be used to build closed loop, non-polluting facilities. Geothermal energy is a clean energy source that is available day and night.
- Why is Nevada uniquely positioned to provide Geothermal Energy in the future?
- The U.S. Geological Survey ranks Nevada first in the Nation for geothermal energy potential, with many high potential areas where proven methodologies will work well. It is estimated that 20 million megawatt hours of electricity per year could be generated using geothermal energy in Nevada. Nevada already has approximately 300 megawatts of geothermal electricity production online with more under development. These factors make investment in geothermal energy in Nevada a relatively low risk.
- What are the challenges to providing Geothermal Energy in the future?
- The cost of electricity produced via geothermal energy is only slightly higher than that of the least expensive fossil fuels. While conventional geothermal methodologies are reliable and well-understood, EGS technologies require additional development to reduce risk and improve yields. Lastly, as with all power sources, a cost-effective means of connecting to the electrical grid and transmitting the generated power is needed.
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