KEY OBJECTIVES AND EXPECTED OUTCOMES

Key objectives

GEOFLEXheat project is set to revolutionize geothermal energy by introducing innovative technologies that enhance heat extraction and efficiency while expanding its applications across various industrial sectors. A major breakthrough of the project is the development of a Heat Pipe Heat Exchanger (HPHE) scaling harvesting system coupled with a Scaling Reactor, which will not only optimize heat recovery from geothermal brine but also extract valuable mineral byproducts.

Additionally, a High-Temperature Heat Pump (HTHP) will be integrated to supply cost-effective, high-temperature heat—an essential component for decarbonizing industrial processes. High-efficiency steam-based Underground Thermal Energy Storage (UTES) system/Steam Accumulator will be developed to store heat generated by HTHPs to provide increased flexibility in heat delivery to the end user.To ensure seamless operation and system optimization, the project will implement a Digital Twin and Control Strategy, enabling real-time monitoring and predictive analytics for geothermal plants. Beyond technological advancements, GEOFLEXHeat will foster Europe’s leadership in renewable energy by indicating the possibilities in accelerating Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) development with geothermal systems.

A robust commercialization strategy underpins the project, including environmental and economic assessments, and a Social Acceptance Guide aimed at influencing policy and engaging communities. The ultimate goal is to position geothermal energy as a cornerstone of Europe’s sustainable energy mix, ensuring its long-term viability and economic competitiveness.

With demonstration sites in Iceland and Italy, GEOFLEXHeat will validate solutions that make geothermal energy more cost-effective, flexible, and sustainable. Supported by the European Climate, Infrastructure, and Environment Executive Agency (CINEA) under the Horizon Europe program, the project brings together leading research institutions, industry players, and policymakers to accelerate the transition to clean energy.

To sum up, this ambitious project will:

    • Develop and demonstrate next-generation geothermal heat extraction technologies for industrial-scale applications.
    • Enhance energy efficiency by integrating a High-Temperature Heat Pump (HTHP) capable of upgrading low-grade geothermal heat.
    • Provide greater flexibility in heat supply, adapting to varying industrial demands through the use of Underground Thermal Energy Storage/Steam Accumulator.
    • Mitigate scaling issues in geothermal wells through Heat Pipe Heat Exchanger and an advanced Scaling Reactor, improving operational longevity.
    • Enable real-time system optimization with a Digital Twin and Control Strategy, reducing operational costs.
    • Validate solutions in real-world industrial settings at two demonstration sites in Iceland and Italy.
    • Support EU climate goals by reducing fossil fuel dependence in industrial heat applications.

Impact of the project

Industrial trust in geothermal energy

– The Open Access system simulator will allow industries to test and validate geothermal integration, increasing adoption in industrial heating.
– The Scaling Reactor and HPHE solutions will be deployed in at least four user cases, proving their viability for industrial heat extraction.

Technology validation and deployment

– GEOFLEXHeat will validate high-temperature heat pump and energy storage solutions in real-world environments, ensuring their readiness for industrial deployment.
– Demonstration sites in Italy and Iceland will provide key technical, environmental, and economic data to de-risk future geothermal investments.

Outreach and market uptake

– At least 10,000 website views and 1,000 document downloads will ensure wide dissemination of project results.
– 700 social media followers and 150+ newsletter subscribers will establish a community engaged in geothermal innovations.

Economic and energy security benefits

– GEOFLEXHeat solutions will contribute to lower industrial heating costs, with a targeted return on investment (ROI) of under three years for integrated geothermal systems.
– The project will reduce fossil fuel dependency by enabling continuous, high-efficiency geothermal heat supply.

Environmental and sustainability contributions

– A 50% reduction in heat waste from geothermal brine through improved extraction efficiency.
– The Scaling Reactor will enable recovery of valuable minerals, reducing industrial waste and supporting circular economy initiatives.

Geothermal market expansion and policy influence

– The project will deliver policy recommendations and a Social Acceptance Guide to encourage European policymakers to expand geothermal incentives and regulatory support.
– The creation of a GEOFLEXHeat spin-off company will ensure long-term commercialization and industry engagement.