Direct use of geothermal energy

Geothermal energy is the heat energy that is obtained from deep inside the earth in either the form of hot water or in the form of steam. It is therefore also called earth energy. Heat energy is provided directly by the geothermal reservoirs found miles beneath the earth’s surface. The heat energy so obtained can be used for several purposes and this is called the direct use of geothermal energy resources.

The direct use of earth energy was made thousands of years ago when geothermal energy resources, the hot springs were used for purposes like cooking and bathing. The innovations and advancement in technology has enabled to use geothermal energy in more sophisticated ways.

The direct use of geothermal energy resources includes heating a single building or multiple buildings at the same time, raising plants in greenhouses, drying crops, heating water at fish farms, pasteurization of milk, generating electricity and in different types of industries.

As an alternative energy source, it is being commonly used today. To get earth energy, a well is drilled into the geothermal reservoir to ensure a steady supply of water. Usually three components namely piping, heat exchanger and a controller are used in a system that uses geothermal energy directly. The water is brought up through the well and the components of the direct use system deliver the heated water for direct use.

With the advancement in technology, better methods and systems have been developed that use this renewable earth energy source in a more efficient and cost effective manner.