WASHINGTON, Feb. 15 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- If you have questions about geothermal energy, the Geothermal Energy Association has issued a new report that will provide you with answers. Geothermal 101: Basics of Geothermal Energy Production and Use, edited by Leslie Blodgett and Kara Slack of GEA, covers the essentials of geothermal energy from electric power to residential heat pumps. "Whether you are an educator, student, policymaker, or industry specialist, this report will serve as a guide for your geothermal education," noted Leslie Blodgett, co-editor of the report.
Ever wonder how a geothermal power plant works? Want to know more about how geothermal energy can help reduce global warming? Curious about where geothermal resources are located? This 50-page guide will help you find the answers to these and many other questions. It includes 30 charts, tables, maps, and pictures to help the reader understand the power behind one of the fastest growing renewable technologies -- the power of the earth's heat.
Today the U.S. has about 3,000 MW of geothermal electricity connected to the grid. In addition, as of August 2008, almost 4,000 MW of new geothermal power plant capacity is under development. Worldwide, geothermal energy supplies more than 10,000 MW to 24 countries and now produces enough electricity to meet the needs of 60 million people.
"There is a tremendous interest in geothermal energy and its largely untapped potential to help address our energy and climate problems," noted Karl Gawell, GEA's Executive Director. "GEA hopes that making this report available will help tap the creativity and imagination of thousands of people to help expand the use of this natural energy source."
"We have worked hard to make the report readable, while still being thoroughly researched and reviewed," commented co-editor Kara Slack. The report includes simple definitions, descriptions, and figures and cites key national reports that provide further information. Information and references have been updated with the most recent materials. "Whether you are new to the basics or have been working in the field for years, this report provides valuable information," she added.
The report is currently available on GEA's Web site in parts at http://www.geo-energy.org/aboutGE.asp and is available to download in PDF format at http://www.geo-energy.org/publications/reports.asp.
