GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
KIRAN PAUL 7B3
Introduction
Geothermal energy is the earth’s natural heat below the surface. It is a limitless resource of energy. Geothermal energy has been on earth for thousands of years, the Romans, Chinese and Native Americans had used it by taking baths, cooking etc. Now people use geothermal energy to heat/cool home or transfer it to electricity.
EFFECTS ON THE ENVIROMENT
Geothermal energy effects the environment in many ways. When energy is taken out of the earth it can release poisonous gases in the earth`s atmosphere, such as carbon dioxide, mercury, and sulphur. These gases can cause acid rain and global warming. Many of the geothermal sources can carry an amount of dangerous elements such as mercury, arsenic, and antimony. If released in rivers, lakes, or bodies of water it can be extremely dangerous to humans and animals.
EFFECTS ON THE ECOMNY
Geothermal energy can affect the economy in a good way . When building geothermal plants it helps create quality jobs for many people. It can also increase tax base,boost rural economies and geothermal energy heating pumps can save 20% to 80% off heating and cooling costs for user
ADVANTAGES OF GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
- takes up less space
- maintenance of the power plants is cheap
- it does not relay on the weather
- renewable resource
- customers who use geothermal energy heating pumps can save 20% to 80% off heating and cooling costs
- over time it pays its self
- can reduce pollution
- geothermal energy can be used directly
DISADVANTAGES OF GEOTHERMAL ENERGY
- most cites are not close to where geothermal energy is produced
- fear of eurputing volcanoes
- most of the sites where geothermal energy is produced are far away from cities ,towns where there most needed
- installing the plants are very expensive
- can release poisonous gases
- water usage
- can cause earthquakes