Geothermal comes from the Greek word Geo which means earth and Thermo which mean heat. So, as we know that geothermal energy means energy or power extracted from beneath the earth. Geothermal energy is a type of thermal energy which is generated and stored on the earth. To understand geothermal of energy, imagine having a fireplace nearby, one which will never go out. Let us have a deep insight into the pros and cons of Geothermal energy to know more about it.
Advantages of geothermal energy:
- It is a renewable source of energy.
- It is non-polluting and environment-friendly.
- There is no wastage or generation of by-products.
- Geothermal energy can be used directly.
- It is reliable and stable.
- Highly sustainable.
- Low emissions.
- Very less noise pollution,
- Independent on whether unlike solar energy.
- Massive potential.
- Increase in employment.
- High efficiency of energy conversion.
- The maintenance cost of geothermal power plants is very less.
- Geothermal power plants don't occupy too much space and thus it helps in protecting the natural environment.
- Unlike solar energy, It is not dependent on for weather conditions.
Disadvantages of geothermal energy:
- Only a few sites have the potential of geothermal energy.
- Total generation potential of the eruption of a volcano.
- These plants may affect the stability of the land.
- It is based on location-specific.
- Most of the sites, where the geothermal energy is produced, are far from markets or some cities, where it needs to be consumed.
- Drilling and exploitation of it too much expensive.
- Environmental concern due to the release of greenhouse gases during extraction.
- There is always a danger of eruption of a volcano.
- The installation cost of the steam power plant is very high.
- There is no guarantee that the amount of energy which is produced will justify the capital expenditure and too many operations costs.
- It may release some harmful, poisonous gases that can escape through the holes drilled during construction.
- Pumps are required for extracting it may require external power, which may possibly come burning fossil fuels.