Geothermal Energy

Geothermal energy is a type of energy derived from heat accumulated in the Earth’s depths and classified as a renewable energy source. This resource occurs in the form of hot water and steam with temperatures above the atmospheric average, often containing various minerals, salts, and gases. Geothermal energy forms when meteoric water seeps into regions near尚未冷却的 magma masses deep underground, becomes heated, and rises to the surface naturally or through technological means as steam or hot water. In many parts of the world, particularly near fault lines and near extinct or active volcanoes, hot water sources can be found at depths of up to 5,000 meters.

Its Position Among Renewable Energy Sources

Renewable energy sources are gaining importance due to the rapid depletion of fossil fuel reserves and their negative environmental impacts. Renewable energy is defined as energy continuously and repeatedly obtained through natural cycles. Fossil fuels still dominate global energy consumption, accounting for 72.7% of worldwide electricity generation in 2019, while renewable sources contributed 27.3%. Hydropower holds the largest share among renewable sources at 15.9%, followed by wind energy at 5.9%, solar energy at 2.8%, and geothermal energy and others at 0.4%.

Like other renewable sources, geothermal energy stands out as environmentally friendly, sustainable, reliable, cost-effective, and easily accessible. Its negative environmental impacts are negligible compared to fossil fuels.

Applications and Economic Contributions

Geothermal resources have been used for centuries for health purposes such as spa tourism and industrial applications. Since the 20th century, they have also been employed for electricity generation. Today, geothermal energy is utilized in numerous fields including electricity production, heating, drying, medicine, agriculture, and industry.

The value added by geothermal energy to the economy is substantial. Its ease of detection and production, low cost, and rapid return on investment are among its primary advantages.

Status in Türkiye and Environmental Impacts

Türkiye possesses rich geothermal resources due to its location within the Alpine-Himalayan belt. Although the country has over 1,300 geothermal sources, it is noted that this potential is not yet fully utilized. In Türkiye, geothermal resources are used for electricity generation, industry, health tourism, agriculture, and residential heating.

The Aegean Region, particularly Aydın Province, leads Türkiye in electricity production from geothermal energy. A large portion of the country’s geothermal-based electricity generation is concentrated in this region, especially within the Büyük Menderes and Gediz Grabens. The Kızıldere geothermal field in Denizli is significant as the site of Türkiye’s first geothermal electricity production and subsequent privatization. As of August 2017, the total installed capacity of geothermal power plants in Türkiye was 861 MWe.

Although regarded as a renewable and environmentally friendly source, geothermal energy investments can cause lasting and serious environmental damage if proper planning and feasibility studies are not conducted beforehand. According to a survey conducted in the Aegean Region, a significant portion of respondents (91.3%) believed that extraction of geothermal resources alters the ripening periods of vegetables and fruits. Additionally, 81.3% of respondents indicated that geothermal activities negatively affect the region’s forest cover, while 64.1% stated that they reduce groundwater levels and contribute to desertification.