Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future

In 1905 construction began of the world's first geothermal power station in Larderello, Tuscany. In 1913 it started producing electrical energy, thus harnessing the abundant geothermal heat associated with the Tuscan volcanic fields. For years Italy remained the sole producer of geothermal electrical power and still is leading in this technology. In 2006 the power stations of Larderello, Travale and Monte Amiata producde 1,5% of the electricity generated within Italy.

When visiting the area one is confronted with contrasts between old and new: Well preserved, traditional Tuscan villages, perched on hilltops, contrast with the paraphernalia of high technology. Sheep and cattle graze peacefully amongst cooling towers and pipelines.

Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Larderello old and new
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Larderello: Pipeline and cooling towers
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
The daily showtime for tourists...
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
...is very, very noisy!
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Castelnuovo and cooling tower
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Castelnuovo from below
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Unspoilt architecture
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
San Lorenzo a Montalbano
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Steam from the ground
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Twin towers at Castelnuovo
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Spaghetti junction
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
From steam to electricity
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
"Pastorale" near Castelnuovo
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Time standing still...
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
...even for the herd animals...
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
...as they are watched by the sheepdog
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Power station and steam condensors of the modern type
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
Transforming the electrical power to high voltage
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
While industry uses geothermal power...
Geothermal Energy in Larderello: The Past meets the Future
...solar energy is also harnessed in traditional ways.
Photos Jürg Alean, April 2005