Where Does Geothermal Fit In?

We have mentioned the geothermal source of energy briefly in earlier editions but we’ve been asked does it really qualify as a renewable source of energy? The answers are interesting and manifold.

To begin with the first answer is “Yes Virginia Geothermal energy is renewable.” And that’s so because its heat is coming from the Earth itself and until the Earth cools it will be a source. That’s a long time off. Not to worry.

But how is the heat generated and how does it get to the surface? There are a number of theories offered by a number of respected scientists ranging from a continuing process of nuclear decay to friction between the layers of the earth’s outer core.

Regardless of the cause, it is clear that the magma down there is plenty hot: between 1,292 and 2,372 degrees Fahrenheit (700-1300C).

And where it comes closest to the surface it is second only to hydropower as the cleanest natural source of energy for generation of electricity and other processes that require heat.

We have said earlier that if all the potential sources of hydropower were developed, there would be no longer a need to burn coal in the United States. According to the Earth Policy Institute, “Originating from the earth’s core and from the decay of naturally occurring isotopes such as those of uranium, thorium and potassium, the heat energy in the uppermost six miles of the earth’s crust is vast – 50,000 times greater than the energy content of all oil and natural gas resources.” (Italics ours)

A number of countries located on what is called the “Ring of Fire” (the name for an area of high volcanic activity around the basin of the Pacific Ocean) are rich in geothermal energy – including the United States. There is another “hot spot” in the Great Rift Valley in Africa.

The answer then to our original question is that worldwide, 39 countries with a total population of over 750,000,000 people have geothermal resources capable of meeting all their electricity needs.

Here again, it will take the maximum efforts of an enlightened population, through their elected or appointed representatives, to insist on the replacement of the politically entrenched Oil, Coal and Natural Gas Industries with the natural, clean and endless supply of power provided by earth since its creation.