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The transformer is a static electricity machine capable of transferring, by exploiting the electromagnetic induction phenomenon, electrical alternate current from one circuit to another by changing its characteristics. Schematically, a transformer consists of two windings, each formed by a number of spires of copper wire wrapped around a highly magnetically permeable iron core, one of which receives energy from the power line, while the other is connected to circuits of use.
Italy was the first country in the World to deploy geothermal energy, with the first generation plant constructed 1913 in Larderello. Since then the history of geothermal power has been a source of pride for the Italian energy industry and a feather in Enel’s cap.
Currently the installed geothermal capacity worldwide is 10,000 MW, and it is expected to double by 2016.
Italy, with about 700 MW, is one of the World's leading producers and by far the largest in Europe. Its geothermal generation is focused in Tuscany, which is therefore the Italian Region with the highest renewable production. Indeed, geothermal power covers one fourth of the Region’s energy needs and meets the electricity needs of approximately 2 million homes.
In the next few years this source is expected to undergo further development, also due to Enel’s increasing commitment towards developing and deploying innovative technologies and improving the integration of geothermal plants in their environment, landscape and social structure.
Concerning innovation, a significant development will come, at an international level, from the expanded construction of advanced binary cycle plants, allowing electricity to be generated also from geothermal power at medium temperature (80-180 °C), which up to now was used only for heating or hydrothermal purposes.