Geothermal energy may be promising for the U.S.

MIT researchers suggest geothermal energy is a viable form of power

Geothermal power may be a viable form of energy for the U.S., according to an interdisciplinary panel from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). Researchers from MIT suggest that there is a great deal of geothermal potential within the country and if this energy can be tapped, it could the country move away from fossil-fuels. MIT researchers have released a report providing some insight on the matter and predicting the potential benefits that the country could see from making use of geothermal energy.

Geothermal energy could produce as much as 100,000 megawatts

According to the report, the country could potentially produce as much as 100,000 megawatts of electricity through the use of geothermal energy within the next 50 years. This is estimated to be 2,000 times more than the country’s total energy consumption in 2005. With oil prices on the rise and concerns regarding climate change gaining traction, geothermal energy may be growing more attractive to the federal government.

U.S. shows mild support for geothermal energy

The government has already invested heavily in the development and adoption of alternative energy systems. Geothermal energy is part of the country’s overarching energy plan, but has received only modest support. Other forms of energy, such as solar, wind, and hydrogen, has taken the majority of the government’s attention. MIT researchers suggest that the technology required to take advantage of the country’s geothermal potential is 40 years from becoming viable. Because of this, the government may not be apt to show support for the energy, especially when other clean technologies are already widely available.

New power plant may highlight the benefits of sustainable energy

Though the U.S. has shown only mild interest in geothermal energy, there is currently a large-scale geothermal power plant being developed in the country. The power plant is still in its early stages and those involved are still determining the technological requirements of harnessing geothermal power. It may be several years before the power plant becomes active, but may serve as an example in regards to the usefulness of geothermal energy.

Related article(s) and resources:

http://inhabitat.com/mit-study-shows-geothermal-could-produce-100000-megawatts-of-energy-in-the-us-within-50-years/