Geothermal energy

An adequate energy supply has always been a fundamental prerequisite for economic development. In recent years, the safety of supplies and the reduction of pollution have also become major priorities. Hence the search for renewable and environmentally-friendly energy sources has become even more important.
Geothermal energy is a primary source of energy which, if properly harnessed, is renewable and environmentally-friendly.
Emilia-Romagna has no high enthalpy geothermal systems (i.e. T > 150°C) that can be used to produce electricity directly; however the presence of thermal springs and deep wells with positive heat anomalies point to low enthalpy systems which can be used for direct heat. For example, in Ferrara and Bagno di Romagna, low enthalpy geothermal reservoirs have been tapped into and used for district heating and spa resorts.
Other possible applications include industrial and agricultural uses.
Recent technological progress, the variability of the cost and the difficult of supply of oil and gas, the need to reduce the use of fossil fuels in order to cut pollution and our reliance on supplies from foreign countries have made the exploitation of geothermal energy at any temperature an attractive and viable alternative.