Which Country stands first in the Generation of Geo-Thermal Energy?
VerifiedAnswer: Iceland
Explanation:
Iceland stands as the global leader in geothermal energy generation, producing approximately 30% of its total electricity from geothermal sources. This remarkable achievement makes it the country with the highest proportion of geothermal energy in its energy mix worldwide.
The secret behind Iceland's geothermal success lies in its unique geographical location. The country sits on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates meet. This positioning creates intense geological activity, including numerous volcanoes, hot springs, and geysers that provide abundant geothermal resources just beneath the surface.
Iceland's geothermal energy utilization extends far beyond electricity generation. The country uses geothermal energy for multiple purposes:
• Heating homes and buildings - Nearly 90% of Icelandic homes are heated using geothermal energy • Industrial processes - Including aluminum smelting and food processing • Agriculture - Heating greenhouses to grow vegetables year-round • Recreation - Famous geothermal pools like the Blue Lagoon
The development of geothermal energy in Iceland began in the early 20th century, but it gained significant momentum after the 1970s oil crisis. The government invested heavily in geothermal infrastructure, recognizing it as a reliable, clean, and domestically available energy source. Today, Iceland operates several major geothermal power plants, with the largest being Hellisheiði Power Station, which produces around 300 MW of electricity.
What makes Iceland's achievement even more impressive is that geothermal energy, combined with hydroelectric power, makes the country nearly 100% dependent on renewable energy sources. This has positioned Iceland as a global leader in sustainable energy practices and has attracted energy-intensive industries that benefit from clean, affordable electricity.
