An Unlimited Energy Source?

Geothermal is no doubt a large energy source, but it is not unlimited, nor truly renewable.

For all practical purposes , it is unlimited, it is as good as renewable.

"For all practical purposes , it is unlimited..."

Isn't this what was said about oil... only thirty years ago?

Are you under the misunderstanding that this has not been thought of?

Have you watched the news about the geothermal sites that are in operation and the problems involved?

You could share with us what you have learned.

Just use search and follow energy blogs that you may trust to some extent.

Over a period time you get the overall picture without the blather that the pros & cons throw out.

Geothermal was discussed at length, width and depth some 1 year ago right here. The example was the Yellowstone National Park hot magma drilled into from the outside. The other example was Iceland's actual geothermal power.

The problems were mainly the unobtanium1 for drilling into high temperature magma. The other one was the unobtanium2 for withstanding the agressive water in piping. The next one from the top of my head was the mineral laden discharge water. The last one I recall was the likely trigger of earthquakes. Minor things, like multigigawatts steam released from cooling towers, altering the local climate and such does not even merit mentioning. Oh, and yes, the Icelandic EXPERIENCE.

What are they worth, in face of somebody dreaming (or smoking something)?!?

There is always geothermal research happening in Washington State. The state has converted several restroom facilities for the parks department over to geothermal, but the use is very limited.

Here is some reference: http://northofthehotzone.com/

New Zealand. Iceland......

Thanks for such useful information