Friday, August 24, 2012

Introduction to Geothermal Energy


What Is Geothermal Energy?


Geothermal Energy is defined as “energy from the internal heat of the earth”
  • 47% of the incoming radiation from the sun
    is absorbed by the earth
  • The remainder is absorbed by the atmosphere
    or reflected back into space
Translated: Geo-Thermal means “Earth-Heat”
“High Temperature” Geothermal Energy
  • Energy Source for Hot springs and geysers
  • Temperatures exceed 300°F
  • Converted to produce useable heat and electricity













  











Energy Efficiency – Building Blocks


Step 1 – Reduce Energy Load
  • Site Orientation and Building Arrangement
  • Efficient and Effective Building Envelope
Step 2 – Improve Efficiency of Systems and Equipment
  • HVAC Systems – Geothermal Systems
  • Efficient A/C units, Boilers, Motors, Light Fixtures
  • Lighting Systems – Daylighting
  • Computers and Office Equipment
Step 3 – Effective Building Operations
  • Proper Control – Energy Management Systems
  • Commissioning
  • Operations and Maintenance – Training and Support
  • Leverage Utility Company Rate Schedules
Step 4 – Alternative Energy Sources
  • Renewable Energy Options – Solar, Wind, Biomass

"Low Temperature” Geothermal Energy

  • Heat Energy contained near the surface of the Earth
  • Shallow Earth temperatures fluctuate with seasonal outside air temperature
  • Earth temperature becomes more stable with increasing depth
  • Nearly constant Earth temperatures at depths below 16 feet
  • Earth mean temperature approaches annual average outside air temperature
  • Deep Earth temperatures start to increase at depths below 400 feet – at about 1 °F per 100 feet

2 comments:

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Joven Acosta said...

Very informative and synchronized explanation of geothermal energy!
This is a very good introduction, easy to understand and read!
This is nice way to explain one of geothermal energy's direct uses.

Bulusan Geothermal