地热能发展史及应用介绍.pdfVIP

Geothermal Energy GEOTHERMAL ENERGY Introduction Geothermal power (from the Greek roots geo, meaning earth, and thermos, meaning heat) is power extracted from heat stored in the earth. This geothermal energy originates from the original formation of the planet, from radioactive decay of minerals, and from solar energy absorbed at the surface. It has been used for space heating and bathing since ancient Roman times, but is now better known for generating electricity. Worldwide, geothermal plants have the capacity to generate about 10 GW as of 2007, and in pracce generate 0.3% of global electricity demand. An addional 28 GW of direct geothermal heating capacity is installed for district heating, space heating, spas, industrial processes, desalination and agricultural applications. 1. Theory The earths crust is heated by the decay of radioactive elements. The heat is carried by magma or water beneath the earths surface. Some of the heat reaches the surface and manifests itself in geysers and hot springs throughout the world. Geothermal power can be used to directly heat buildings. Further, the pressurized steam from superheated water beneath the earths surface can be used to power turbines and thus generate electricity. Although geothermal The Nesjavellir Geothermal power seems ideal in that it is naturally occurring and does not Power Plant in Iceland require structures to trap or collect the energy (as in solar panels or windmills), it does have limitations. The greatest drawback is that naturally occurring geothermal vents are not widely available. Artificial vents have