Mo.nalis.a: a methodological approach to identify how to meet thermal industrial needs using already available geothermal resources

Mo.nalis.a is a conceptual model aimed at
identifying the most suitable local geothermal sources
to match the nearest industrial thermal needs. The methodological
approach proposed is based on investigating
industrial thermal processes and then identifying suitable
geothermal solution plants that match these thermal
requirements. The model was tested in Apulia (southern
Italy) as a case study for assessing how the methodology
could contribute to reducing the use of conventional
energy resources for the industrial heat supply sector.
The medium thermal needs in Apulia are always higher
than 60 °C, and the main strategic industrial processes
discussed into this work are Bpasta and flour production^
Bwastewater treatment/sludge digestion^ and Bswimming
pool management^. In order to match these industrial
thermal demands, the most suitable proposed plant is
the ground water heat pump system, limited to the first
100 m, the depth involved in the heat exchange through
vertical probes of model. Finally,Mo.nalis.a identifies the
Apulian areas with a possible development of these three
activities using geothermal resource: the Foggia province,
Murge and Salento sectors.