The use of geothermal energy at large scales and its benefits over other sources of renewable energy

Abstract

As climate change becomes more of a reality, and as our non-renewable resources are becoming depleted, finding "cleaner" renewable energy for our society is imperative. In recognition of this problem, the objective of this paper is to present the geothermal energy as one of the clean and sustainable form of renewable energy that uses the heat stored in the Earth as its source of energy. Its first commercial uses dates back to the early 1800's and has continued to grow throughout the years. One of its most known and common uses is at a small scale as a heat source for residences. It can also be used at a much larger scales. There are several questions that come up with large scale geothermal energy model. How much energy can be produced? Can geothermal energy produce enough energy for a whole town, city, or country? What is the initial cost and lifelong cost of geothermal energy? Are there limitations in regards to geographic locations? This paper will identify and explore the viability of different large-scale uses of geothermal energy, and how it stands out in comparison to other major sources of renewable energy such as wind power, solar power, hydropower and bio energy. The results of this study indicates initial costs of geothermal power plants is high, even double compared to other power generation plants, due to the high cost of well drilling and well exploration. However, the lifecycle costs of geothermal plants tend to be much lower, resulting in a sound economic choice over the lifespan of a facility. Particularly when considering the environmental benefits of using geothermal power over traditional forms of fossil power production. This study is related to improvement and enhancement of graduate engineering education in a changing environment. Engineers must recognize the negative impacts of fossil fuel as the main source of energy. And the facts of the price of silence on climate change and the high cost on environment caused by fossil fuel carbon emission. And the recognition in the number of people and property likely to be affected by rising sea levels caused by melting polar ice caps. The study and analysis of geothermal energy as one of the clean and sustainable form of renewable energy would fit the call in the graduate division and it is consistent with the division objective.