What is a key characteristic of geothermal energy?

Geothermal energy is defined by its origin from the internal heat of the Earth. This heat is produced by the decay of radioactive materials and the residual heat from the planet’s formation. As a result, geothermal energy can be harnessed in various forms, such as steam and hot water, to generate electricity or provide direct heating. This renewable energy source is stable and consistently available, unlike solar or wind energy, which depend on environmental conditions. Thus, the key characteristic of geothermal energy is that it is obtained from the Earth's heat, making it a unique and invaluable resource in the context of sustainable energy solutions.