Geothermal Energy

By Grace

In times when we are becoming more and more conscious of our energy usage and its impact on the environment, geothermal energy is growing in the US and other countries. It is an all-natural, non-polluting energy source. It can be used to heat water, and power some homes.

Below the surface of the earth, hot liquid magma heats up water, which then shoots through the crust in the form of geysers and hot springs, or in geothermal power plants. When the steam shoots up, it causes a turbine to spin, which generates electricity.

We can naturally make geothermal power through geysers. Geothermal power plants are another way to get it. In geothermal power plants, concrete cylinders are injected into the mantle of the earth. Then, workers pour water into the cylinders, and when the water reaches temperatures high enough to boil, it creates steam, which is generated into power.

One drawback is that geothermal power is scarce. In the US, it is only available in California. Although it isn't widely available, it is a useful supplement to other energy sources, and is also useful alone. In Colorado, geothermal power is used to heat the Glenwood Hot Springs Pools.