Geothermal Energy

There are four basic geothermal energy resources that are discussed in this chapter: liquid-dominated, vapor-dominated, hot dry rock, and geo-pressure systems. The world’s geothermal resources are discussed, including countries with widespread geothermal power potential. Simple ways to locate potential geothermal sites are presented. There are numerous ways of generating energy and power from geothermal conversion systems that are explained. The basic thermodynamic cycle for geothermal power systems is carefully explained using steam tables. Example problems using actual data from a geothermal facility in the Philippines are discussed enumerating all components of systems. Important calculations, such as the coefficient of performance (COP) and geothermal heat pumps, are discussed with corresponding examples and simple economic comparisons. Numerous example problems are presented, including ways to estimate the overall system efficiencies for geothermal systems. The six general types of geothermal power cycles (indirect condensing, noncondensing, straight condensing, single flash, double flash, and binary systems) are also discussed in this chapter, including applications. Finally, factors affecting geothermal power plant costs are discussed, including environmental effects of geothermal power systems on the ecosystem.