Geothermal energy – is it safe?

When done properly, yes.

As with any industrial project there are risks involved, but when geothermal energy is extracted from the right location it is not dangerous.  

Geothermal energy, or “earth heat”, was enjoyed by our ancestors as they used hot springs for warmth and cleansing. Geothermal energy has been used by people for over 10,000 years. According to the Geothermal Energy Association, a continuous successful direct-use heating project has been underway in Boise, Idaho since 1892 and the first large-scale geothermal electricity generating plant opened in Larderello, Italy in 1902. 

The Canadian Geothermal Energy Association explains direct-use geothermal energy as when hot water from the ground is used directly for a function. The function could be to heat a pool, heat homes, for agricultural use, laundry facilities and many others. Direct-use geothermal has lower temperature requirements than electrical use. To generate electricity, higher temperatures are required to move turbines.

To access higher temperatures, holes must be drilled deep below the Earth’s surface. Depending on the area where they are drilling, there can be some earthquake risks. The New York Times noted in 2010 that the US Department of Energy imposed safeguards on geothermal projects to avoid earthquakes.

With proper regulations and practices, geothermal energy can be harnessed to help heat our homes and cities while operating within a reasonable amount of risk.

You can learn more about geothermal energy on the Geothermal Energy Association and Canadian Geothermal Energy Association websites.

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