Geothermal Energy is the Solution to the Energy Crisis Essay examples -

Geothermal Energy: A Solution to the Energy Crisis Abstract So far, scientists have not found a successful substitute for fossil fuels that can handle both the large demand for energy and solve the global warming problem. I propose that geothermal energy is a clean, widely available, and renewable alternative to the usage of fossil fuels. In this paper, I will explain how use of geothermal resources can be energy-efficient, environmentally clean, and cost-effective. I believe that the US government should increase funding for geothermal energy research. This may be the solution to our present energy crisis and global warming. Introduction There is a call of action to solve today’s energy crisis. What we need urgently is a clean, abundant, and reliable source of energy. Geothermal energy may be the solution. Geothermal energy does not produce CO2 and is inexpensive compared to the unbelievably high gas prices. This type of energy is also renewable so it can continue to feed the growing population of the world. â€Å"New [geothermal] facilities can produce electricity for being between 4.5 and 7.3 cents per kilowatt-hour, making it competitive with new conventional fossil fuel-fired power plants.† (Union of Concerned Scientists, 2) This shows that if there is more research focused onto this topic, geothermal energy may become the solution to our energy crisis. Current Energy Consumption Currently, the energy consumption has been increasing exponentially. Energy consumption increases by 2% each year causing a doubling in only 35 years. As of 2003, the energy consumptions in quadrillion BTU (British Thermal Unit= 1055.06 Joules) are: North America- 118.3, Europe- 127.4, Asia- 120.2, Middle East- 19.6, Central/South America- 21.9, ... ...y source." 22 Jan. 2007. 27 June 2008 . Moore, Bill. "Sustainble Iceland: Geothermal Wonderland." 25 July 2008 . Sandoval, Steve. "Valles Caldera Geothermal focus of talk Thursday at Laboratory's Bradbury Science Museum." 26 July 2008 . Solar4Scholars. "Geothermal Energy." 25 July 2008 . Union of Concerned Scientists. How Geothermal Energy Works. 21 July 2008 . World Chancing Team. ""Hot Rocks" for Home Energy." Tools, Models and Ideas for Building a Bright Green Future. 21 July 2008 .