Hydropower potential

Why are we not pouring resources into this form of renewable energy?

Of all the sources of renewable energy, only three are available on demand. They are hydro - where there is a plentiful supple of water, biomass - with its problems of sourcing fuel and geothermal energy.

There are few undeveloped possible hydro sources available in this country and biomass energy is being developed, but what about geothermal energy?

In a recent Open University course I took, the statement is made: "It has been estimated that the hot dry rock resource base in the south-west England alone might match the energy content of current UK coal reserves." Even if this is optimistic there is no doubt that considerable energy on demand is available. Obtaining this energy requires drilling and fracking, a process which is far easier and less likely to cause problems in hard rock, than that required for shale gas. Once the initial work is complete the actual power stations are relatively inconspicuous, although power cables would be required.

Why oh why are we not pouring resources into this form of renewable energy?

Martin Beaney, Shaldon, Devon

Next letter: Thermodynamics spoils the party