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Which countries are leading in the use of geothermal energy and why?

Pershing Schwandt

When it comes to the use of geothermal energy, there are many countries around the world that have made significant progress in exploring, developing, and utilizing this clean and renewable source of energy. However, there are a few countries that stand out as the leaders in this field, based on their approach, innovation, and level of success. Let's take a closer look at these countries and what makes them stand out.

Iceland:

Iceland is often considered the world leader in geothermal energy. This small island nation with a population of just over 300,000 has been able to harness the power of geothermal energy in a unique way. Iceland relies on geothermal energy for about 87% of its total energy needs, making it one of the few countries in the world to achieve almost total energy independence. Iceland's unique geological location, situated on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, means that it is home to a large number of active volcanoes and hot springs, which makes it an ideal location for geothermal power generation. Geothermal energy is used to heat homes, power industries, and even to produce hydrogen fuel for transport.

United States:

The United States is the second-largest producer of geothermal energy in the world after Iceland. The country has more than 3,500 megawatts of installed geothermal capacity, which is enough to power three million homes. Geothermal power is used in residential, commercial, and industrial settings, and also for providing heat and cooling to buildings. The key reason for the success of geothermal energy in the US is the country's vast geothermal resources. The majority of geothermal power plants are located in California, which has the highest number of geothermal plants in the world.

Philippines:

The Philippines is considered as one of the leaders in the use of geothermal energy in Asia. The country has been actively developing geothermal resources since the 1970s and now has an installed capacity of over 1,900 megawatts. The Philippines has more geothermal power installed per capita than any other country in the world, and it is responsible for around 20% of the world's geothermal electricity production. The country's high level of geothermal activity, including volcanoes and hot springs, provides an ideal environment for geothermal power generation. Geothermal power is widely used in the country for power generation, heating, and cooling.

New Zealand:

New Zealand is another country that has made significant progress in the use of geothermal energy. It has an installed capacity of over 900 megawatts, which is enough to power more than 800,000 homes. Geothermal power is used for electricity generation, as well as for heating and cooling homes and businesses. The country's geothermal resources are primarily located in the Taupo volcanic zone, which is home to numerous geothermal fields.

In conclusion, the countries listed above are considered the leaders in the use of geothermal energy due to their innovative approaches, vast resources, and successful implementation of geothermal power generation. These countries have been able to harness the power of geothermal energy in a way that benefits their citizens, the environment, and the economy. As global efforts to transition away from fossil fuels continue, the importance of geothermal energy is likely to grow, and these countries will serve as models for others to follow.