2. Geo what?
Geothermal!
from the Greek roots geo, meaning earth, and
thermos, meaning heat
thermal energy (heat) stored in Earth
geothermal gradient of temperatures
through the crust is 25–30 °C
per kilometer of depth
4. Is it done yet?
The Earth hasn't cooled yet
The center is extremely hot (6000 C) due to a
combination of radioactivity and residual heat
from the formation of the Earth
melted mantle makes molten magma…
5. magma reaches surface of crust and is called
lava
magma reaches crust and heats nearby rocks
and water
heated water can reach the surface and form
hot springs
6. So, how does it work?
Geothermal Gradient
The difference in temperature between the core
of the planet and its surface
Continuous exchange of
thermal energy from core
to surface
7. Yeah, but how?
Geothermal energy is produced by drilling a
well into the ground where thermal activity is
occurring
Once a well has been identified and a
well head attached, the steam is
separated from the water, the water
is diverted through a turbine engine
which turns a generator
The water is injected back into the
ground to resupply the geothermal source
8. The Bad News First:
Direct geothermal heating systems contain
pumps and compressors, which consume energy
Construction of plants can affect land stability
Professional installation: $25,000
Contrary to Native Worldview
9. Then the Good News:
Recycling the Earth’s energy
No heating bill
(but small electricity cost)
One time investment
Geothermal energy is clean,
no fuel is burned and therefore
no by product present
10. Native Worldview:
A Case from Hawaii
Conflict
Opposing views of environment
Native opposition to geothermal energy
development
Native Hawaiians protested against geothermal
development
Wao Kele O Puna rainforest development
11. Summary:
Geothermal energy uses the Earth’s thermal
gradient for heat and power
“Green” energy with few byproducts
Expensive
Contrary to native worldview
Personal preference
Questions?
Thank you for your attention!
opposing views of environment
natural resources to be managed
Native Hawaiian beliefs regard nature as sacred
Belief the lands and waters should remain undisturbed
Specifically, geothermal energy development threatens the most sacred space in all Hawaii, the home and body of the fire goddess Pele