Global perspective on geothermal energy

Summary form only given, as follows. The energy consumption in the world is now little over 400 EJ per year. Available energy resources in the world are large, and energy shortage is not expected in the foreseen future. On the other hand, most (86 %) of the energy used in the world at present is coming from finite energy resources, whereas renewable energy sources are more suitable for sustainable development. The highest share of the use of renewable energy resources is in Iceland, where renewable energy resources comprise 70% of the primary energy resources and 30% is coming from fossil fuels. This unique position has been achieved by an extensive and advanced use of geothermal energy in Iceland. On the worldwide basis, geothermal energy is considered to have the largest technical potential of the renewable energy sources. Furthermore, the production price of geothermal energy is favorable as compared to all other energy sources.