Advantages and Disadvantages of Geothermal Energy

This form of energy is obtained from the Earth from the hot rocks present inside. Geothermal energy is produced by the radioactive materials fission in the earth’s core and some areas. This has been around for hundreds of years now. Geothermal comes from Greek words “Geo” which denotes earth and “Thermal” which denotes heat. Geothermal energy is simply the heat coming from the Earth. Despite the number of controversies and arguments entailed in this form of energy, geothermal energy is still the most affordable and inexpensive green energy solution that is available for man’s use.

Geothermal energy is an excellent help when it comes to saving energy costs and is effective all throughout the season. In fact, geothermal energy is completely clean and sustainable as well. There are numbers of advantages and disadvantages present in relation to geothermal energy.

Geothermal Energy Advantages

1. This form of energy is environmental friendly. This is due to the fact that it is produced by the earth undergrounds and no burned fossil fuels present. No harmful gases and emissions are guaranteed by this form of energy.
2. This renewable energy supply is constant and without limits as well. The use of this energy is sustainable since the Earth would not stop producing heat energy.
3. When energy is being generated by the geothermal energy, this ensures the family that it is actually condensed. A normal geothermal heat pump is quite similar and not even larger to a small fridge.
4. Low maintenance is guaranteed by geothermal energy. Unlike other standard heating systems, geothermal energy does not require much service regularly. Less cost and less hassle are guaranteed by this form of energy.
5. This is also a clean source of energy since the power plants are connected to less carbon emissions. Power plants are equipped with an emission control system for reducing greenhouse gases exhaustion.
6. Geothermal energy can be used directly just like other energy sources. This energy is being used to heat homes using heat pumps.
7. It does not suffer from intermittency issue such as in the case of other renewable energy like wind and solar. It is available whole day and is considered to be the most reliable source of energy.

Geothermal Energy Disadvantages

1. One of the disadvantages of geothermal energy is the upfront costs. High expense is needed for upfront costs which also refer to drilling and exploitation.
2. There are only 24 countries harnessing geothermal energy because power plants are likely cost-effective.
3. Other downfall of geothermal energy is the lack of qualified personnel needed for the installation of geothermal systems. This is due to the fact that this form of energy is not popular like other forms of energy like wind and solar.
4. Geothermal resource’s local depletion is another downfall. Geysers geothermal site is an example. In order for this case to be avoided, extraction of geo-energy should be monitored closely. Geothermal systems enhancement triggers earthquakes and could affect land stability. This must be done carefully in order to prevent accidents.