Renewable Energy | ||||
Geothermal | ||||
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There are 12 main geothermal areas in New Zealand. Most of them have low temperature geothermal resources. The high temperature geothermal systems that can generate electricity are mainly found within the Taupo Volcanic zone in the Waikato and Bay of Plenty. There is another high temperature resource zone in Northland. Geothermal energy is ideally suited to direct heating although it is also used for generating electricity. Low temperature geothermal systems have been widely used for bathing, heating greenhouses, and drying timber and crops. High temperature geothermal resources have been developed for electricity generation. Current capacity is over 400 MW. This is enough energy to power all the residential homes in the Auckland region for a year. The current level of geothermal use pales in comparison to its potential. The key to wider geothermal use is greater public awareness and technical support. Where is geothermal energy avaiable? Read more... Sources: |
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