ADVANTAGES
Geothermal energy derived from the earth’s heat can provide clean, renewable power, while emitting little to no greenhouse gases, and having a small environmental footprint for development. In addition, geothermal energy is available at all times.[1] Modern closed-loop geothermal power plants not only emit no greenhouse gasses, but they also consume less water on average over the lifetime energy output than the most conventional generation technologies.[2]
The Department of Energy’ GeoVision study describes geothermal energy’s benefits as:
- Secure, “always-on” renewable electricity generation with flexible and load-following capabilities to support grid stability and resiliency
- Nationwide electricity generation, and residential, commercial, and district heating and cooling
- Commercial and developing technologies for increased electricity generation and direct-use applications
- Economic benefits for the geothermal industry, and environmental benefits for the nation
- Revenue potential for federal, state, and local stakeholders, as well as royalty potential for leaseholders.[3]
The Geothermal Technologies Office Multi-Year Plan (FY 2022-2026) cites the following important benefits to the nation that geothermal energy offers:
- grid stability
- greater diversity of affordable energy options
- efficient heating and cooling
- key technology and workforce pathways from oil & gas to renewable geothermal development
- lower carbon emissions to help transition Americans to a carbon pollution-free power sector by 2035 and a net-zero emission economy by 2050 [4]
Updated June 2022 by Diane M. Long
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