In a recent study published in the Caspian Journal of Environmental Sciences, Zainab Abed Almoussaw from the College of Islamic Science at Ahl Al Bayt University in Kerbala, Iraq, delves into the viability of geothermal energy as a replacement for fossil fuels in electricity generation. The research comes at a critical time when the energy sector grapples with rising electricity demand and the pressing need to mitigate environmental impacts.
Almoussaw’s study highlights the economic challenges associated with transitioning to geothermal power plants, particularly in Iraq, where investment resources are limited and environmental concerns loom large. “Minimizing costs while addressing environmental issues is a significant challenge we face,” Almoussaw states. The research meticulously calculates the total cost of electricity generation per kilowatt hour (kWh) for various power plant scenarios, providing a detailed economic analysis of geothermal versus fossil fuel sources.
The findings reveal a complex landscape. In scenarios one and two, geothermal energy is deemed economically unviable compared to traditional fossil fuel power plants. However, the narrative shifts in scenarios four and five, where geothermal energy begins to show promise, suggesting that under specific conditions, it may become a competitive alternative. Almoussaw notes, “While geothermal energy currently presents economic challenges, the future may hold opportunities as fossil resources dwindle and pollution concerns escalate.”
This research not only sheds light on the economic feasibility of geothermal energy but also underscores the broader implications for the energy sector. As fossil fuel resources become scarcer and environmental regulations tighten, the need for sustainable energy solutions becomes increasingly urgent. The potential for geothermal energy to contribute to a cleaner energy portfolio could reshape investment strategies and influence policy decisions in the region.
The implications of Almoussaw’s study are far-reaching, suggesting that while geothermal energy may not yet be the panacea for Iraq’s energy woes, it certainly warrants consideration as part of a diversified energy strategy. As the world shifts towards sustainable practices, this research could serve as a catalyst for further exploration and investment in geothermal technologies.
For more insights from Zainab Abed Almoussaw, you can visit her profile at Ahl Al Bayt University. The study presents a significant step in understanding the balance between economic viability and environmental stewardship, a conversation that is increasingly vital in today’s energy discourse.
