The Disadvantages of Geothermal Power

Geothermal power is extracted from deep beneath the surface of the Earth---the temperature rises by one degree Celsius for each 150 feet or so of depth---and most of its disadvantages are related to this fact.

Location

There are few places on Earth that are suitable for the extraction of geothermal power. Geothermal energy must be present, of course, but the rocks containing it must be of a suitable type and situated---in terms of depth and surrounding rock formations---where they can be reached by drilling.

Harmful Emissions

Drilling deep into the Earth presents risks of releasing harmful gases into the environment. This means that builders of geothermal power stations may incur extra costs in capturing and disposing of these gases.

Reliability

It is not uncommon for a site at which geothermal energy is being extracted to "dry up" and stop producing heat for up to a decade.

References

• Clean Energy Ideas: Disadvantages of Geothermal Energy
• Energy Resources: Geothermal Power