3 ms·
Heath exhaustion in geothermal definitely exists. Even wikipedia mentions it > Even though geothermal power is globally sustainable, extraction must still be m
by diegocg 5y ago
Heath exhaustion in geothermal definitely exists. Even wikipedia mentions it
> Even though geothermal power is globally sustainable, extraction must still be monitored to avoid local depletion.[21] Over the course of decades, individual wells draw down local temperatures and water levels until a new equilibrium is reached with natural flows. The three oldest sites, at Larderello, Wairakei, and the Geysers have experienced reduced output because of local depletion. Heat and water, in uncertain proportions, were extracted faster than they were replenished. If production is reduced and water is reinjected, these wells could theoretically recover their full potential. Such mitigation strategies have already been implemented at some sites.
I assume that some of the places with the largest geothermal investments (ie. Iceland) don't suffer this problem that much.