35 1. Overview of the different geothermal systems: role of geophysics Heating has always been essential to human societies, forming the backbone of daily life and industrial activities. Today, heating and cooling account for a substantial portion of global energy consumption worldwide. According to the International Energy Agency (IEA), heating alone, used for residential, commercial, and industrial purposes, accounts for about 50% of final energy consumption globally (Figure 1.4). In colder climates, space heating for homes and buildings is a major energy expense, especially during winter, and accounts for nearly 40% of energy demand in the building sector. Meanwhile, the need for cooling is rapidly increasing, especially in warmer regions, where air conditioning and refrigeration demand has soared over the last few decades. Given the immense need for heating and cooling, geothermal energy presents a powerful, sustainable alternative, as it can provide constant, low-emission heat for both buildings and industry, helping to meet this demand while reducing greenhouse gas emissions. Figure 1.4 Heat Roadmap Europe (2019), Heating and Cooling facts and figures. By tapping into this steady, abundant heat source, geothermal systems can produce electricity, provide direct heating, and power industrial processes with minimal environmental impact. Geothermal energy offers a unique advantage in the push to decarbonize societies because it provides a constant, reliable power supply independent of weather conditions. The installed capacity for geothermal heat and power generation has seen a steady increase, with global geothermal power capacity exceeding 16 gigawatts in recent years (Figure 1.5) and direct-use heating capacity growing even faster (Figure 1.6), especially for district heating, greenhouses, and aquaculture. As of the latest trends, geothermal heating is expanding quickly in regions with abundant lowto-medium temperature resources, while geothermal power plants continue to rise in areas with high-temperature resources. In recent years, advancements in geophysics, hydrogeology, and drilling technology, and have expanded the potential of geothermal energy.
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