[en] Geothermal energy is a varied discipline that challenges many separate scientific domains. Geological constraints limit access to thermal reservoirs, strength of materials limits the ability to drill into hot strata, mechanical constraints limit the extraction of energy from fluid at a small temperature difference and environmental concerns restrict the fluids production because of the gases released. These problems are all being investigated, and progress is constant and hopeful. The uses of geothermal energy are varied. They range from direct use in space heating to using geothermal steam to power turbines. Ground source heat pumps are a popular alternative to conventional air conditioning systems, and water source heat pumps are another proven alternative. Many other applications are on the horizon, including absorption chillers able to operate at a small temperature difference, higher tonnage ground source equipment and new approaches to hot dry rock power production