Geothermal energy

Similar term(s): geothermal power, geothermal power stations, geothermal ground source, heat pump.

The word geothermal comes from the Greek words geo (earth) and therme (heat). So, geothermal energy is heat from within the earth. We can use the steam and hot water produced inside the earth to heat buildings or generate electricity. Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source because the water is replenished by rainfall and the heat is continuously produced inside the earth.

Source: The U.S. Energy Information Administration, Energy Kids page  

The three main uses of geothermal energy are:

1. Direct Use and District Heating Systems which use hot water from springs or reservoirs near the surface.
2. Electricity generation in a power plant requires water or steam at very high temperature […] Geothermal power plants are generally built where geothermal reservoirs are located within a mile or two of the surface.
3. Geothermal heat pumps use stable ground or water temperatures near the earth's surface to control building temperatures above ground.

Source: The U.S. Energy Information Administration, Energy Kids page  

Renewable energy

Español: Geotérmico
Français: Géothermique

Boron

Forests & Energy

India Millennium Development Goals

Fluorinated gases