Geothermal Energy: Sources and Power Generation Methods

Electricity Generation Temperature

Requires sources exceeding 150°C for efficiency.

Residual Heat

Heat remaining from Earth's formation process.

Meteorite Impacts

Source of geothermal energy from external collisions.

Geothermal Energy

Energy derived from Earth's internal heat.

Radioactive Decay

70% of geothermal energy from long-lived nuclei.

Dry Steam Plants

Utilize hydrothermal fluids that are mostly steam.

Flash Steam Plants

Extract steam from high-pressure hot water.

Steam Temperature

Flash steam plants use water over 360°F.

Geysers Geothermal Complex

Largest geothermal plant, 900 MW capacity.

Location of Geysers

North of San Francisco, spans 30 square miles.

Malitbog Geothermal Power Plant

232.5 MW plant in Leyte, Philippines.

Binary Cycle Plants

Use lower boiling point organic fluids for steam.

Binary Cycle Temperature Range

Operates between 250°F and 360°F.

Brine Effects

Can salinate soil if not properly managed.

Land Subsidence

Can occur from excessive water extraction.

Seismic Activity Increase

Linked to land subsidence from geothermal extraction.

H2S Gas

Toxic gas released if cooled water is not injected.

Cooled Water Injection

Maintains underground water pressure and reduces risks.

Environmental Impact

Geothermal plants can affect soil and air quality.

Power Plant Emissions

Non-injected plants can emit harmful gases.

Geothermal Resource Management

Essential for sustainable energy extraction practices.

Heat Extraction

Requires careful management to prevent environmental harm.