Introduction to geothermal energy

27- Geothermal energy


Definition



A natural form of renewable energy generated from the
heat in the earth’s core



Temperature of in excess of 6,000 degrees Celsius.



Available 24/7, it is a reliable provider of electricity and
heat.



Geothermal energy is not dependent on the weather.    


How it works

Geothermal heat pump GHP


Enhanced geothermal systems EGS

•

Large potential
along Ring of
Fire islands


Listed 39 countries around the world that could be powered solely from geothermal
energy

•

Opportunities in Asia and the Pacific

Fiji, Indonesia, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Solomon Islands, Tonga and
Vanuatu


•
Broader capabilities in the

Further development of EGS technology could increase the potential for
electricity production in the region greatly by making electricity production

region with the development of

from geothermal plants more feasible and cost-effective outside of the Ring

enhanced geothermal systems:

of Fire nations


Trends in development



6/24 countries worldwide



Capacity 3,743 MW between 2008 and 2009



30% world’s geothermal electricity

Geothermal electricity generation

Entire world
Asia-pacific


Philippines

•

The second-largest geothermal
capacity in the world after the

US

•

Generated 1,904 MW accounts
for 17% of country’s electricity
needs in 2010

 The view of the PNOC-EDC of the Leyte Geothermal Production Field in 
Tongonan, Leyte, Philippines


Strengths with thermal energy


Steady use

Scalability

Low operation costs of geothermal
power


Challenges to using geothermal energy




High upfront capital and exploration costs 

Limited areas for resource extraction without enhanced geothermal systems


Implementing strategies



Strengthen geothermal systems to extend capacity



Further development of EGS technology is supported by a number of OECD countries.



Technology transfer



Cooperation and financial incentives for domestic and international private investment