Geothermal energy: a solution to the energy crisisSummarySo far, scientists have not found an effective substitute for fossil fuels capable of meeting both to the high demand for energy and to solve the problem of global warming. . I propose that geothermal energy is a clean, widely available and renewable alternative to the use of fossil fuels. In this article, I will explain how the use of geothermal resources can be energy efficient, environmentally friendly and profitable. I think the US government should increase funding for geothermal energy research. This may be the solution to our current energy crisis and global warming.IntroductionThere is a call to action to resolve the current energy crisis. What we urgently need is a clean, abundant and reliable source of energy. Geothermal energy could be the solution. Geothermal energy produces no CO2 and is inexpensive compared to the incredibly high prices of gas. This type of energy is also renewable so it can continue to feed the growing world population. “New [geothermal] facilities can produce electricity for a cost of between 4.5 and 7.3 cents per kilowatt hour, making them competitive with new conventional fossil fuel-fired power plants. » (Union of Concerned Scientists, 2) This shows that if more research was focused on this topic, geothermal energy could become the solution to our energy crisis. Current Energy ConsumptionCurrently, energy consumption has increased exponentially. Energy consumption increases by 2% each year, doubling in just 35 years. In 2003, energy consumption in quadrillions of BTU (British Thermal Unit = 1055.06 Joules) are: North America - 118.3, Europe - 127.4, Asia - 120.2, Middle East - 19, 6, Central/South America - 21.9, ...... middle of paper ...... y source. "January 22, 2007. June 27, 2008. Moore, Bill. "Sustainable Iceland: Geothermal Wonderland. " July 25, 2008. Sandoval, Steve. " Valles Caldera Geothermal focus of talk Thursday at the Bradbury Science Laboratory. " July 26, 2008. Solar4Scholars. " Geothermal energy. " July 25, 2008. Union of Concerned Scientists. How Geothermal Energy Works. July 21, 2008. World Chancing Team. " "Hot Rocks" for Home Energy. "Tools, models and ideas to build a green and bright future July 21. 2008 .