About Geothermal Energy by Kyle Bryant and Sèan Reeser Geothermal energy uses the heat from below the Earth’s crust. Some examples of natural geothermal energy on the planet’s surface are geysers and natural hot springs.

Tapping into Geothermal Energy To tap into geothermal energy, pumps draw heat from the Earth or underground water sources. Certain systems can also obtain geothermal energy from liquid magma. In order to reach depths at which geothermal energy is accessible, rotary drilling has always been used in the past. Recently, a thermal drill has been developed that uses heat to reach geothermal heat sources. This method is much more efficient, more cost effective, and can dig deeper than rotary drilling.

Uses of Geothermal Energy Heating pumps that draw heat from the Earth use that heat to help heat and cool buildings. Some facilities use the heat from geothermal energy to generate electricity, which is supplied to businesses and homes in the surrounding areas.

Citations "Tapping into Geothermal Energy." Johnson Controls. Johnson Controls, 2007. Web. 2 Mar. 2011. <http://www.johnsoncontrols.com/publish/etc/medialib/jci/be/sustainability/renewable_energy.Par.38055.File.dat/Geothermal%20insert%20FINAL.pdf>. ETH Zurich. "Tapping Geothermal Energy: New Drilling Method With Fire and Flame In The Depths." ScienceDaily 15 September 2009. 2 March 2011 <http://www.sciencedaily.com­ /releases/2009/09/090912144809.htm>.