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Thermal energy is a green renewable energy source that is largely left untapped. Investments in other forms of renewable energies are well known like solar and wind to a lesser degree is wave power but what about thermal?

First what is thermal energy? This is defined as a form of energy that manifests itself as an increase of temperature. It is the sum of sensible heat and latent heat. The best known source of thermal energy is our sun. Most people think of it as a heat source. This is true but it is only heat after it leaves the sun. Heat is thermal energy in transfer or in motion.

Another source of renewable thermal energy is our own earth. Deep inside is a heat source that has been around since the earth was formed. Most people have heard about volcanoes. This is the earth releasing trapped thermal energy.  The force is enough to blow the top off of huge mountains. But not all of the thermal energy from the earth is so explosive and dangerous. The State of Idaho has decided to start an incentive program for residents and businesses to invest in thermal heat pumps.

The theory is sound. This involves taking heated water from the ground and converting it to electricity or as radiant heat to supply heat for buildings. The temperature of this ground water is constant and with a regulator can be used.

As for electrical plants the first geothermal plant went online over 20 years ago. Due to the economic conditions present at that time it was closed. In 2002 this same plant was reopened and in 2008 it went online and started supplying the people of Idaho with 10 megawatts of electricity. There are 24 other sites in Idaho alone with the same potential to create renewable power. Thermal Energy, this renewable source of energy is non-polluting and will always be present.

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