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What percentage of geothermal energy is used in the United States?

Harper Adams | 2023-06-07 14:47:27 | page views:1149
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Benjamin Smith

Works at Google, Lives in London. Graduated from Stanford University with a degree in Computer Science.
As a renewable energy expert, I've been closely monitoring the development and utilization of various clean energy sources, including geothermal energy. Geothermal energy is a fascinating and sustainable resource that taps into the Earth's natural heat. It has been utilized in various ways, such as heating buildings, providing hot water, and, importantly, generating electricity.

In the United States, geothermal energy has been a part of the energy mix for several decades. According to the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA), geothermal power plants have been operating in the U.S. since the early 20th century, with the first geothermal power plant being commissioned in 1904 in Boise, Idaho. However, the significant growth in geothermal electricity generation started in the 1970s and has continued to the present day.

As of my last update, geothermal energy contributes a small but significant portion to the U.S. electricity generation. In 2013, geothermal energy accounted for approximately 0.4% of the total electricity generation in the United States. This figure, while small, is indicative of the steady growth and consistent presence of geothermal power in the country's energy portfolio.

The western states of the United States are particularly rich in geothermal resources. The geology of these states, with their volcanic and tectonic activity, provides an abundant source of heat that can be harnessed for electricity production. The Geysers in California, for example, is the largest geothermal field in the world and has been a significant contributor to the state's renewable energy efforts.

The use of geothermal energy in the U.S. is not limited to electricity generation. It also plays a role in direct heating applications, such as space heating and cooling, as well as in industrial processes. The direct use of geothermal heat accounted for about 21% of total U.S. geothermal consumption in 2013.

It's important to note that while the percentage of geothermal energy in the U.S. electricity generation is currently low, there is significant potential for growth. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has set goals to increase geothermal energy production as part of its strategy to diversify the nation's energy sources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Several factors contribute to the potential growth of geothermal energy in the United States. These include advancements in geothermal technology, which make it possible to extract heat from the earth more efficiently; supportive policies and incentives from federal and state governments; and an increasing awareness of the environmental benefits of renewable energy sources.

In conclusion, while geothermal energy currently represents a small fraction of the U.S. electricity generation, its consistent presence and potential for growth make it an important part of the country's renewable energy strategy. The future of geothermal energy in the United States looks promising, with continued technological advancements and supportive policies likely to increase its contribution to the nation's energy mix.


2024-05-19 18:35:15

Charlotte Taylor

Studied at the University of Tokyo, Lives in Tokyo, Japan.
Geothermal resources used to produce renewable electricity in western states. Geothermal energy has been a small, but consistent, source of electricity in the United States since 1971, providing 0.4% of total U.S. generation in 2013.Sep 8, 2014
2023-06-07 14:47:27

Sophia Nguyen

QuesHub.com delivers expert answers and knowledge to you.
Geothermal resources used to produce renewable electricity in western states. Geothermal energy has been a small, but consistent, source of electricity in the United States since 1971, providing 0.4% of total U.S. generation in 2013.Sep 8, 2014
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