The GEOFLEXheat project aims to revolutionize the European geothermal energy sector by introducing an innovative suite of technologies to enhance the extraction, efficiency and application of geothermal heat across diverse industrial sectors. This initiative is driven by a consortium that synergizes leading research institutions, SMEs, and industry experts to tackle the challenges of scalability, integration, and social acceptance associated with geothermal systems. At the core of project lies the development of a Heat Pipe Heat Exchanger coupled with an advanced Scaling Reactor to improve heat recovery from geothermal brine while simultaneously providing valuable mineral byproducts. This is complemented by a novel High-Temperature Heat Pump that delivers cost-effective and high-temperature heat, crucial for a wide range of industrial processes and beyond. The project will also deliver a state-of-the-art Control Strategy and Digital Twin, optimizing system performance and enabling real-time management of geothermal plants. Through comprehensive simulation and modelling, the project will showcase the full potential of geothermal energy to provide stable, affordable, and sustainable heat supply. The ambitious goals include fostering Europe's global leadership in renewable technologies, ensuring reliable energy supply for industries and households, and accelerating the integration of Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage with geothermal systems. To ensure the project's outcomes have a lasting impact, GEOFLEXheat will execute robust commercialization strategy, including the establishment of a spin-off company, extensive environmental and economic assessments, and the creation of a Social Acceptance Guide to facilitate policy influence and community engagement. Embracing a future where geothermal energy is a cornerstone of Europe's renewable energy mix, GEOFLEXheat is poised to become a catalyst for energy sustainability, economic growth and environmental stewardship.
GEOTHERMAL EXTRACTION AND UPGRADE WITH FLEXIBLE USAGE FOR INDUSTRIAL HEAT APPLICATIONS
GEOTHERMAL EXTRACTION AND UPGRADE WITH FLEXIBLE USAGE FOR INDUSTRIAL HEAT APPLICATIONS
Project information
Name : GEOFLEXHEAT
Overall budget : 2996262.50 €
EU contribution : 2996262.50 €
Coordinated by : Brunel University of London
Start date : 01/10/2024 - End date : 30/09/2027
Grant ID : 101172780
Programme (s)
Horizon Europe
The expected results for the GEOFLEXheat project focus on transforming the European geothermal energy sector through the development of innovative technologies and systems. Key outcomes include:
- Heat pipe heat exchanger: this technology will enhance geothermal brine heat recovery while producing mineral byproducts, improving overall efficiency.
- High-temperature heat pump: designed to deliver cost-effective, high-temperature heat, this is critical for diverse industrial applications and aims to lower energy costs and environmental impact.
- Control strategy and digital twin: these will optimise the operation of geothermal systems, supporting real-time management and maximisation of system performance.
- Carbon capture integration: the project includes integrating Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) technologies with geothermal systems, further reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
- Commercialisation and social acceptance: to ensure sustainability, the project plans a robust commercialisation strategy, including establishing a spin-off company and developing a Social Acceptance Guide to influence policy and gain community support.
- Environmental and economic assessments: conducted to verify the project’s impact, these assessments will evaluate the benefits of deploying these technologies in terms of sustainability and financial viability.
This project is poised to help Europe lead in renewable geothermal technology, providing stable and affordable energy for industries and households and supporting Europe’s renewable energy mix.