Geothermal energy is renewable and powerful. Why is most of it untapped?

Summary

This video explores the potential of geothermal energy, with a focus on its success in Iceland and its untapped possibilities in Indonesia. Iceland has transformed its energy landscape using geothermal power, providing clean electricity and heating for its citizens. However, despite its potential, geothermal energy remains underutilized globally due to high development costs, technological challenges, and local resistance. Indonesia, with its vast geothermal resources, could greatly benefit from this renewable energy source, but cultural and logistical obstacles remain. The video emphasizes the need for further investment and innovation to harness geothermal power worldwide.

Takeaways

• 😀 Iceland is a global leader in geothermal energy, using it for electricity generation and heating, providing a clean, sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
• 🌍 Geothermal energy is available globally, and almost every place on Earth has some potential for its use.
• 💡 Geothermal energy works by tapping into the Earth's internal heat, either through drilling into underground reservoirs or harnessing steam naturally escaping at tectonic plate boundaries.
• 🌋 Iceland's geothermal energy journey began in the 1970s, driven by the oil crisis, which encouraged the development of district heating systems and eliminated the need for imported oil.
• ⚡ Geothermal energy accounts for nearly 30% of Iceland's electricity and provides heating for 90% of homes, transforming the country’s energy landscape.
• 🇮🇩 Indonesia has the largest untapped geothermal potential in the world, with 29 gigawatts spread across several islands, including Java, Sulawesi, and Bali.
• 🌱 Geothermal energy is a clean, renewable power source that operates 24/7, unlike solar and wind energy, which depend on weather conditions.
• 💬 In Indonesia, local communities often resist geothermal projects due to concerns about sacred lands, and the popularity of coal makes transitioning to green energy challenging.
• 🌍 Despite its vast potential, only around 25% of known geothermal resources are being used globally, with many regions still not tapping into their geothermal capabilities.
• ⏳ Developing geothermal projects takes years, making it less attractive for short-term investors, despite being a profitable long-term investment once operational.
• 🌏 Geothermal energy could help decarbonize the power sector globally, providing a reliable and sustainable source of power to help combat climate change.

Q & A

What makes Iceland a unique example for geothermal energy?

Iceland is a global leader in geothermal energy, utilizing it for both electricity generation and district heating. The country's geothermal system provides clean energy to nearly 90% of homes and contributes about 30% of its electricity. The geothermal potential of Iceland has transformed it from a poor nation using imported fossil fuels to one that is nearly self-sufficient in renewable energy.

Why is geothermal energy considered a sustainable alternative to fossil fuels?

Geothermal energy is considered sustainable because it is a renewable resource. It harnesses the Earth's natural heat, which is virtually limitless as long as the energy is managed properly. Unlike fossil fuels, geothermal power doesn’t contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, making it a cleaner alternative.

What role does geothermal energy play in Indonesia's energy future?

Indonesia, situated on the Ring of Fire, has the largest geothermal potential in the world. Despite this, the country still relies heavily on coal for electricity. Harnessing geothermal energy could help Indonesia reduce air pollution, cut reliance on coal, and shift to a more sustainable and consistent energy source.

What is the significance of the 29 gigawatts of geothermal potential in Indonesia?

The 29 gigawatts of geothermal potential in Indonesia is enough to power a significant portion of the country's electricity needs. This is equivalent to the combined output of around 29 medium-sized nuclear power plants or over 12,000 wind turbines, making geothermal a viable option to reduce the reliance on fossil fuels.

Why is geothermal energy not being used more widely, despite its potential?

Geothermal energy faces several challenges, such as high upfront costs, long development times, and the risk of triggering earthquakes during exploration. Additionally, it is less attractive to investors due to its slow return on investment compared to other energy sources like oil or coal.

What is the environmental concern associated with geothermal energy extraction?

While geothermal energy is a clean energy source, extracting it can sometimes trigger small earthquakes or cause instability underground, especially when steam and water are reintroduced into the earth. This can be problematic in areas with sacred or geologically sensitive sites.

How does geothermal energy compare to other renewable energy sources like solar and wind?

Unlike solar and wind, geothermal energy is available 24/7, making it a more reliable and consistent energy source. While solar and wind energy depend on weather conditions, geothermal can provide continuous power throughout the year, day or night.

What historical steps did Iceland take to transition to geothermal energy?

Iceland’s transition to geothermal energy was catalyzed by the oil crisis of the 1970s. The country rapidly expanded geothermal district heating systems, eliminating almost all imported oil and significantly reducing reliance on fossil fuels. Over time, geothermal energy became a backbone of Iceland's energy infrastructure.

What is the current state of geothermal energy usage worldwide?

Globally, about 25% of the known geothermal potential is being used, with significant untapped resources still available. Although geothermal energy has vast potential, it is underutilized due to technological, financial, and political challenges. By 2050, geothermal could supply up to 4% of global energy demand.

How does geothermal energy work?

Geothermal energy works by tapping into the Earth’s heat, which increases as you go deeper underground. This heat warms water that seeps into reservoirs, which can either be accessed directly or turned into steam. The steam is used to turn turbines and generate electricity. After use, the water is reintroduced into the ground, creating a sustainable, cyclical process.