Development and Utilization of Geothermal Resources

Geothermal energy has been used for centuries for bathing, cooking and space heating. More recently district heating and industrial processing along with geothermal heat pumps has become part of the direct-use mix. Geothermal electric power generation was started in Italy in 1904, with the first commercial plant on line in 1913. In 2005 the total installed capacity for direct use was 28,268 MWt producing 75,943 GWh/yr in 72 countries. Also the installed capacity for electric power was 8,933 MWe generating 56,786 GWh/yr in 24 countries. Energy savings amount to an equivalent 270 million barrels (41 million tonnes) of fuel oil. Since, geothermal energy is widespread and often located in remote areas; it is often used as distributed energy, providing a local and domestic source of renewable energy. This distributed use contributes to the energy security of the country.