Disadvantages of Geothermal Energy

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Disadvantages of Geothermal Energy

  • Emissions of greenhouse gases present below earth surface can migrate above the earth surface which increases the pollution levels. This situation mostly prevails around geothermal power plants.
  • Construction of geothermal power plants may affect the stability of the land.
  • It is costly to setup the geothermal power plants.
  • Heat up-front costs to set up heating and cooling systems.
  • Setting up of geothermal reservoirs is location specific since it has specific needs. Such locations are mostly far from the populated area.
  • To function geothermal heat pump, input power is needed which leads to the consumption of more energy.
  • Transportation of geothermal energy for long distances is costly and prohibitive.
  • The thermal efficiency of geothermal electric plants is low and is around 10-23%.
  • Fluids drawn from deep under the earth contain a mixture of gases like carbon dioxide, hydrogen sulphide, methane and ammonia which contribute global warming and cause irritating odour.
  • Hot water obtained during geothermal sources contains traces of mercury, arsenic, antimony, boron etc. which are toxic chemicals.
  • The enhanced geothermal system can trigger earthquakes as a part of hydraulic fracturing.
  • It may release some harmful, poisonous gases that can escape through the holes drilled during construction.