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When properly developed and managed, geothermal
systems are a clean, abundant, and reliable source
of renewable energy. Use of geothermal energy
for electricity generation or for direct use conserves
non-renewable and more polluting resources. Installed
geothermal electricity generation capacity world-wide
is equivalent to the combustion of nearly 30 million
tonnes of coal or the output of about 10 nuclear
plants.
 Geothermal
energy is effectively a renewable resource that
does not consume any fuel or produce significant
emissions. Although some geothermal fields have
been degraded, none have ever been exhausted and
sustainable development is possible. Geothermal
energy also has the advantage over other renewables
that it is independent of climatic variation.
Geothermal energy is a relatively low-cost and
indigenous generation option that can contribute
to New Zealand's growing demand for electricity.
It is uniquely reliable, with geothermal power
stations typically achieving load factors of 95%,
compared to typical load factors of 30 - 50% for
hydro and wind power stations. The Wairakei power
station has operated at a load factor of more
than 90% for over 40 years with low operating
costs. This inherent reliability makes geothermal
generation a valuable component in a diverse electricity
supply system such as New Zealand's.
There are geothermal generation opportunities
on either side of Auckland (i.e. Northland and
the Taupo Volcanic Zone), the principal demand
centre for electricity in the North Island. Proximity
to Auckland, assuming sufficient transmission
capacity, provides an efficient, low-cost electricity
supply option. Geothermal fields are also commonly
coincident with major forests and their energy-intensive
processing industries, allowing symbiotic development
of each resource.
An important aspect of recent investment in geothermal
projects is the development of partnerships between
power generators and Maori trusts. Maori commonly
have the land access rights to geothermal fields,
and geothermal projects are increasingly delivering
economic benefits to local Iwi.
See Other Geothermal Energy
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