What is the difference between high and low temperature geothermal systems?
There are two main types of geothermal energy: high-temperature and low-temperature geothermal systems. Both systems harness thermal energy from deep within the earth, but there are significant differences in the temperature range and potential uses.
High temperature geothermal systems
High-temperature geothermal systems are found in areas where water or steam at very high temperatures is found deep underground. They are usually found in volcanic areas or at the junction of tectonic plates. These systems usually use water or steam with temperatures above 150 °C.
In high temperature geothermal systems, thermal energy is usually converted into electrical energy. The high-temperature water or steam is brought to the surface and, through a turbine, drives a generator that produces electricity. In addition, in high-temperature geothermal systems, the thermal energy can be used in thermal centres, for example for heating or hot water.
Low temperature geothermal systems
Low-temperature geothermal systems are located in areas where lower-temperature water is found deep in the ground. These systems usually use water with temperatures between 30 and 150 °C. Low-temperature geothermal systems are often found in continental groundwater or in the shallow crust.
In low-temperature geothermal systems, heat energy is usually harnessed by heat pumps. Heat pumps use the thermal energy extracted from deep in the ground for heating or cooling systems. In low temperature geothermal systems, thermal energy is often used for insulation, hot water production or to support agricultural processes.
The main difference between high and low temperature geothermal systems is therefore the temperature range and the potential uses. While high-temperature systems produce electricity, low-temperature systems use thermal energy for heating, cooling or other specific applications.
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