Geothermal Energy Facts
Geothermal energy has been used throughout the world for thousands of years. Hot springs were used by the both the Romans and the Native Americans. With today’s concern about energy, there is a renewed interest in geothermal power.
Did You Know?
- Although relatively cool on the surface, the temperatures at the center of the Earth reach several thousand degrees.
- The first geothermal power plant was started in 1904 in Larderello, Italy. It is still in operation today.
- In 1960, the Geysers in California were developed to generate electricity and currently produce approximately 5% of California’s power supply.
- Geothermal energy can be used to provide both electricity and heat.
- Geothermal energy is reliable, clean, and renewable.
- When compared to other types of power plants, geothermal power plants have a very small footprint on the local area in which they are situated.
- Geothermal electricity plants provide a steady source of power, operating more than 95% of the year.
- Iceland generates 17% of its electricity, and 87% of its heating from geothermal energy.
- Geothermal energy is used in more than 20 countries to generate electricity, including Iceland, USA, Japan, Italy, Indonesia, New Zealand, Mexico, the Philippines, Kenya, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua.
- 99% of the Earth is hotter than 1000°C, while 99% of the rest is actually hotter than 100°C. Only the Earth’s surface is comparatively cool. The deeper one goes, the warmer it becomes: on average by 3° C per 100 metres.