Geothermal Resources: Mapping Earth's Heat
Explore the different types of geothermal resources worldwide and understand how geological conditions determine their energy potential
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Section 2 of 5Types of Geothermal Resources
Geothermal resources vary significantly based on geological conditions, temperature, depth, and fluid content. The most accessible resources are found in volcanic regions where hot water and steam naturally circulate through permeable rock formations. However, geothermal energy exists in some form almost everywhere on Earth.
Resource classification depends on temperature and accessibility. High-temperature resources (above 225°C) are ideal for conventional power generation, while medium-temperature resources work well with binary cycle plants. Low-temperature resources are perfect for direct heating applications and ground-source heat pumps.
Resource Assessment Factors
- • Temperature and thermal energy content
- • Depth and drilling accessibility
- • Rock permeability and fluid flow
- • Water content and chemistry
- • Proximity to energy infrastructure
- • Seismic and environmental constraints
Interactive Geothermal Resource Mapper
Geothermal Resource Types
Resource Assessment Parameters
Resource Assessment
Development Considerations
Global Geothermal Resource Distribution
Top Geothermal Countries
Resource-Rich Regions
Key Insight: Geothermal resources are widely distributed globally, with the highest potential in tectonically active regions. Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS) could dramatically expand accessible resources beyond naturally permeable reservoirs.