hydrothermal
HY-druh-thur-muhl
Definition
Relating to the action of heated water in the earth's crust, specifically concerning naturally occurring reservoirs of steam or hot water used for energy.
Etymology
The word is derived from the Greek 'hydor' meaning water and 'therme' meaning heat. It entered scientific English in the mid-19th century to describe geological processes involving heated water.
In the news
The article distinguishes between 'hydrothermal' energy, which relies on natural hot water reservoirs, and 'enhanced geothermal systems' that access heat in deeper basement rock. This distinction explains why the utility shifted its exploration focus after initial investigations into hydrothermal resources were unsuccessful.
Chelan PUD explains why geothermal may fit Central Washington
Read the full article ↗Cashmere Valley Record