Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
5.3
Other New Energies for Power Generation
5.3.1 Geothermal Power
Geothermal is the energy resource of the interior (earth heat), which can be
exploited and utilized by human beings, which is a clean energy.
Geothermal power generation can boast of low operation costs, convenient
transportation mode, free from restrictions from heated field positions, belonging
to a high grade of energy and emits no pollution. Geothermal power generation is
valued much higher than other forms of energy.
China has a rich geothermal resources accounting for 7.9 % of the global
amount. High temperature geothermal resources, which the reservoir temperature
is more than 150
C, are mainly distributed in southern Tibetan, western Yunnan,
western Sichuan and Taiwan.
Middle and low temperature geothermal resources have spread throughout much
of the country.
Since China started late in large-scaled geothermal exploitation, there are some
significant differences than in developed countries for exploitation technology,
efficiency of heat utilization, comprehensive and systematic utilization technology
and scientific management.
Exploiting and utilizing geothermal resources can ease energy stress in the
country.
Since the first experimental geothermal power plant was built in Fengshun,
Guangdong province in 1977, China has constructed other geothermal power plants
such as the Huitang geothermal power plant in Hunan, the Yangbajing geothermal
power plant, the Naqu geothermal power plant and the Langjiu geothermal power
plant in Tibet.
Total installed capacity of 24.18 MW and a power generation amount of l million
KWH more or less per year has occurred in recent years. It has continually tapped
its potential to raise the output, setting a record.
Some 141.9 million kilowatt-hours of electricity were produced in 2009. The
capacity of Yangbajing power plant has reached 2.41 billion KWH and the nation
ranks 14th among 22 countries in geothermal power generation installations.
5.3.2 Tidal Power
Tidal power produces electricity by using hydro-generator units. Workshops are
usually located in or beside hydroelectric dams, taking advantage of a favorable
terrain of the gulf and the estuary to build water dikes and reservoirs.
Since tidal power has a huge reserve, low operating costs, small impact on the
environment, no waste gas, residue or water emissions, it belongs to clean energy.
China started to utilize tidal power in the early 1950s, which makes it one of the first
countries in the world to do so.
