In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, geothermal energy stands out as a reliable and consistent power source. Yet, despite its potential, it remains a minor player in the global energy mix, contributing just 0.34% to the world’s energy needs. This stark reality is highlighted in a recent systemic review published in the journal ‘Unconventional Resources’ by Charity M. Nkinyam, a researcher at the Africa Centre of Excellence for Sustainable Power and Energy Development (ACE-SPED) at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
Nkinyam’s research delves into the evolution of geothermal energy, a renewable resource that taps into the Earth’s heat to generate electricity. The review reveals that while geothermal’s installed capacity has grown from 9,791 MWe in 2009 to 16,318 MWe by the end of 2023, its growth has been overshadowed by the dominance of fossil fuels. “Geothermal energy has the potential to provide consistent and reliable electrical power, especially for base load demand,” Nkinyam asserts. “This positions it as a competitive alternative to fossil fuels, but it requires significant governmental support to enhance its competitiveness.”
The review underscores the need for favorable feed-in tariffs and preferential tax treatment to level the playing field for geothermal energy. Currently, over 32 countries are actively developing their geothermal resources, but the sector faces challenges that hinder its widespread adoption. Nkinyam’s work not only highlights these hurdles but also provides a roadmap for stakeholders to promote geothermal energy as a vital component of a clean energy future.
One of the key challenges is the high upfront cost of geothermal projects, which can deter investors despite the long-term benefits. “The initial investment required for geothermal projects is substantial,” Nkinyam explains. “However, the consistent and reliable power output makes it a sound investment in the long run.” The review also explores various extraction technologies, geothermal power plants, and applications, offering insights into the current state of the technology and areas for further research.
The commercial implications of this research are significant. As the energy sector grapples with the transition to cleaner sources, geothermal energy offers a stable and predictable power supply. This could revolutionize the way we think about energy security and sustainability. By providing a comprehensive overview of the geothermal landscape, Nkinyam’s work serves as a call to action for policymakers, investors, and energy companies to embrace this underutilized resource.
The review published in ‘Unconventional Resources’ (which translates to ‘Non-Traditional Resources’ in English) emphasizes the need for innovative strategies to overcome the barriers to geothermal energy adoption. As the world seeks to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, geothermal energy could emerge as a game-changer, offering a sustainable and reliable solution to meet our energy needs. The future of geothermal energy lies in the hands of those willing to invest in its potential and drive its development forward.
