Clean energy, part 2
Geothermal power
This kind of energy is generated from the heat stored underground. Most water resources are deep under the surface. They have the temperature from 25 – 150 degrees Celsius. They can find the way to the surface and appear in the form of volcanoes, hot springs and geysers.
We can use the stream and hot water produced inside the earth to heat buildings or generate electricity. What is more, the geothermal power can be also used in agriculture: e.g. for drying fruits and vegtables, growing crops. Finally, it can be used for medical purposes. Hot waters in a geothermal spa are rich in minerals which may help some people suffering from skin diseases.
The impact of geothermal energy on the envioronment depends on how it is being used. In general, the direct use of the geothermal energy has almost no negative impact on our envioronment. Most geothermal power plants release no greenhouse gases (GHG) emissions.
However, there can be some disadvantages of geothermal energy. One of them is the low number of suitable locations for a power plant. But the most important disadvantage of this kind of energy are dangerous gases and minerals which can come up from underground along with the steam.
Jarek Juszczak, II a