Geothermal energy is energy that is tapped from deep below the earth surface. It is extracted in the form of steam or hot water and used to power turbines of geothermal plants on the surface for generation of electricity. A lot of countries have exploited this form of energy with countries like Iceland generating over 30% of its energy from geothermal sources. This form of energy is overly abundant and we will never run out as it is replenished naturally as heat is being continually transmitted from the earth’s core.
Nigeria has a few hot water springs which could be exploited for extremely great benefits and for increasing power supply to the grid. It is cost effective and reduces the carbon footprint.
Geothermal energy in Nigeria is largely untapped. In Kenya, Geothermal energy provides for over half of the total electricity produced in the country. Kenya is the first African country to construct these plants and thereby reduce cost of electricity. By 2030 over 4500MW of electricity is expected to be generated by geothermal energy.
Something has to be done quickly to explore this renewable source of energy. The major problem that seems to hinder most countries is usually the high cost of setting up these plants. There is also a tendency to trigger earthquakes during the drilling.
Research has shown great potential along the Benue trough, Plateau and Borno Basin. Nigeria’s population continues to increase and new sources like geothermal energy needs to be utilized for increased supply to the national grid.
