Geothermal Heat as an Energy Source

Abstract

With recent energy shortages the possible use of geothermal energy as an alternative source has received much new attention. Geothermal energy, in the broadest sense of the term, is relatively evenly distributed in the earth. But it is economically feasible to harness this energy only when conditions are favorable. This is only true for volcanically young areas where hot steam can be found close to the surface and can be economically converted into electric energy. However, rising costs of energy make it possible to use smaller as well as more deeply situated heat reservoirs and with this the incentive to find smaller and deeper heat sources has increased.