Powered by volcanoes: Dominica boosts clean energy

Dominica is one of the islands in the Caribbean. It attracts 83,966 visitors a year!

We have spoken a lot about the growth in the use of green energy sources across the world, from wind to solar and even ocean energy.

But here's one you might not have heard of - volcanic energy!

Geothermal energy is taken from the heat created by volcanic activity as it warms underground water and rocks.

Dominica, an island in the Caribbean, has plans to harness its natural resources to generate clean electricity for its 66,000 residents and its booming tourism sector.

What is geothermal energy?

The new geothermal power plant in Dominica will access steam from boiling hot, natural underground reservoirs that are heated by volcanic rocks

Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that is harnessed from heat within the earth.

The energy is reliable and consistent.

A renewable energy source means using power from things in nature that don't run out - things like wind, water or heat!

Dominica hopes to end its reliance on diesel-powered generators by building a geothermal power station.

The power station will be built in the south of the country and will access boiling hot water that is currently contained in natural underground reservoirs that are heated by the surrounding volcanic rock.

The steam from the water will be used to drive turbines that generate electricity - pretty clever!

The geothermal power station is being built in a remote valley

The energy plant is expected to be ready for use by the end of the year.

The Government hope that if the project is successful it will benefit neighbouring islands long term and also help inspire other Caribbean nations to explore more renewable energy sources.

Dominica's energy minister Dr Vince Henderson told the BBC "We hope to totally eliminate the need for diesel generation for electricity in Dominica by 2030".

This project is a huge part of that goal.