What are the best sites for geothermal energy extraction?

1 Geothermal Resources

The first factor that affects the potential of geothermal energy extraction is the availability and quality of geothermal resources. Geothermal resources are the underground reservoirs of hot water or steam that can be tapped by wells or pipes. The temperature, pressure, depth, and permeability of these reservoirs determine how much heat and power they can provide. Generally, the higher the temperature and pressure, the deeper the resource, and the more permeable the rock, the better the resource.

2 Tectonic Settings

The second factor that influences the best sites for geothermal energy extraction is the tectonic setting of the region. Tectonic settings are the geological features that result from the movement and interaction of the earth's plates. Some tectonic settings create favorable conditions for geothermal energy extraction, such as volcanoes, rifts, and subduction zones. These settings are often associated with high heat flow, thin crust, and fractures that allow water to circulate and heat up.

3 Environmental and Social Impacts

The third factor that determines the best sites for geothermal energy extraction is the environmental and social impact of the project. Geothermal energy extraction can have positive effects, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, creating jobs, and enhancing local development. But it can also have negative effects, such as land use change, water consumption, noise, and possible induced seismicity. Therefore, the best sites for geothermal energy extraction are those that minimize the environmental and social risks and maximize the benefits.

4 Economic Viability

The fourth factor that affects the best sites for geothermal energy extraction is the economic viability of the project. Geothermal energy extraction can be costly, especially in the exploration and drilling phases. The costs depend on the location, depth, and complexity of the geothermal resource, as well as the technology, infrastructure, and market conditions. The best sites for geothermal energy extraction are those that have low costs and high returns, and that can compete with other energy sources.

5 Examples of Best Sites

The fifth factor that illustrates the best sites for geothermal energy extraction is the examples of successful projects around the world. Some of the countries that have the highest geothermal power capacity are the United States, Indonesia, Philippines, Turkey, and New Zealand. These countries have diverse geothermal resources and tectonic settings, and have developed policies and incentives to support geothermal energy extraction. Some of the best sites for geothermal energy extraction in these countries are The Geysers in California, Kamojang in Java, Tiwi in Luzon, Aydin in Anatolia, and Wairakei in North Island.

6 Future Opportunities

The sixth factor that shows the best sites for geothermal energy extraction is the future opportunities for expanding and improving geothermal energy extraction. Geothermal energy extraction has a huge potential to meet the growing demand for renewable and clean energy, but it still faces many challenges, such as technical, financial, regulatory, and social barriers. The best sites for geothermal energy extraction in the future are those that can overcome these challenges and exploit new technologies, such as enhanced geothermal systems, binary cycle plants, and co-production with oil and gas.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?