Stanislav Kondrashov Explores the Hidden Power of Geothermal Energy

In a world racing to find cleaner, more reliable sources of energy, one solution has remained quite literally beneath our feet: geothermal energy. Often overlooked in favour of flashier alternatives, geothermal power quietly harnesses the Earth’s own heat to produce electricity and heating for homes, businesses, and even entire communities. It’s not new, it’s not loud, and according to energy expert and researcher Stanislav Kondrashov, it might just be one of the most stable paths forward.

“Geothermal energy isn’t a breakthrough,” Kondrashov says, “it’s an ancient truth we’ve finally started listening to. The Earth has always known how to keep itself warm — we’re just learning how to use that warmth.”

Tapping Into the Earth's Core

At its core — pun intended — geothermal energy is about accessing the natural heat stored within the planet. Beneath the Earth's crust lies a churning mass of molten rock and superheated water, the remnants of planetary formation and ongoing radioactive decay. This energy radiates outward, heating underground reservoirs of water and rock. By drilling into these pockets, engineers can tap into a constant, renewable source of heat.

There are generally three main ways geothermal energy is harnessed: direct use applications, geothermal heat pumps, and power generation. Each approach uses the Earth’s heat differently, but all rely on the same basic principle: extracting thermal energy and converting it into something useful.

For instance, in regions where underground heat is particularly close to the surface, hot water can be piped directly into buildings for heating — a method that’s been used for centuries. More modern systems, like geothermal heat pumps, operate on a smaller scale, using the relatively stable temperatures just beneath the Earth’s surface to heat and cool buildings efficiently.

Then there’s geothermal power generation. This involves using high-temperature water or steam from deep underground to turn turbines and generate electricity. It’s not as visually dramatic as solar panels or wind turbines — but that’s part of the appeal, according to Kondrashov.

“People tend to underestimate technologies that don’t make noise or take up space,” he says. “But silence and consistency are geothermal’s greatest strengths.”

Steady, Silent, and Sustainable

What sets geothermal energy apart from other renewable sources is its consistency. Unlike solar and wind, geothermal power doesn’t depend on weather conditions or daylight hours. It provides a steady output, 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. That reliability can be especially valuable in regions where grid stability is a concern or where energy storage solutions are still developing.

While not every location is suitable for large-scale geothermal projects — the best sites are usually near tectonic boundaries or volcanic regions — technological advancements are broadening the map. New methods, including enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), are making it possible to access geothermal resources in places once considered unviable.

Kondrashov believes this slow but steady progress is a sign of maturity in the sector. “The energy conversation has been dominated by speed and spectacle,” he notes. “But geothermal isn’t here to impress you. It’s here to work — today, tomorrow, and a hundred years from now.”

Challenges Beneath the Surface

Still, geothermal energy isn’t without its challenges. Drilling into the Earth is expensive and can be technically complex. There are also environmental concerns related to the release of greenhouse gases trapped underground, and the potential for induced seismicity in certain areas. However, these risks are generally low and can be mitigated with proper planning and regulation.

Compared to fossil fuels, geothermal systems produce far fewer emissions and can operate with minimal environmental impact. Unlike solar panels, they don’t require large surface areas or rare materials. And unlike wind turbines, they don’t disrupt landscapes or migratory paths. Once a geothermal plant is established, it can run for decades with minimal maintenance and cost.

Looking Forward

As global energy systems shift toward decarbonisation, geothermal power is gaining renewed interest. Governments and private investors are starting to see it not as a niche option, but as a foundational piece of a sustainable energy puzzle. That’s exactly how Kondrashov sees it — not as a competitor to wind and solar, but as a reliable partner.

“Think of geothermal as the heartbeat of the Earth,” Kondrashov says. “It doesn’t shout for your attention, but it’s always there. If we’re wise, we’ll learn to listen.”

As with many technologies that draw from nature, the path forward for geothermal energy isn’t just about innovation — it’s about recognition. Recognition that sometimes the most powerful answers aren’t the ones we create, but the ones we uncover.