Geothermal Energy

Chelsey Haske Taryn Mulienburg

Jenny SobeckiTaylor Bourne

Geothermal Energy

A renewal resource that collects heat from within the Earth in the form of steam or hot water

Takes steam generated from a geothermal reservoir and is used to generate turbines to create energy.

Most common typePlant turns high pressure water into steam which generates the turbines. After the steam cools, it condenses back into water and is put back into the ground where it can be reused.

Hot water travels through a heat exchanger where isobutane is heated in a closed loop. Isobutane is more beneficial than water because it boils at a lower temperature and thus is more easily converted into steam that will run the turbine.

Plants are located near plate boundaries characterized by hot spots. For example, the Ring of Fire.

Geothermal Energy has many different uses.

-Heat homes and buildings

Geothermal Energy Uses

-Electricity generation power plants

-Direct use and direct heating systems

Ancient Uses of Geothermal Heat Energy

Ancient Rome, China, and Native American Cultures.Hot mineral springs used to bath, heat, and cook.

Still today, people believe in the natural healing powers of the hot, mineral-rich waters.

Heat pumps take ground water, usually between 50-60 degrees, and pumps it directly into pipes within the buildings,

industrial or home, for heating and cooling.

Oakland University

Geothermal energy close to home!

Energy Efficient

Benefits of Geothermal Energy

Environmentally CleanCost Effective

45% more efficient and effective at heating and cooling your home than standard options.

Emits less than 1% of the CO2 emissions of a fossil fuel plant

Gives off 97% less acid rain causing compounds

Although the initial cost to install a geothermal heat pump is higher than standard options, in the long run it will pay for itself.

Average monthly savings: 30-60%

Go green with geothermal energy!