A model proposal for evaluating thermal demand of industrial process to be supplied by low geothermal enthalpy

The aim of the research is to provide an interdisciplinary approach, on the basis of geological, technological, energy demand and economical aspects, to optimize the exploitation of geothermal resources for thermal use in industrial processes. Therefore, a conceptual model (Mo.nalis.a) that identifies the most suitable geothermal technology to satisfy the thermal industrial demands in four regions, located in south of Italy, has been proposed. This is based on the interaction and integration of different actions able to associate industrial thermal energy request with the local shallow/deeper geothermal resources. These ones were mapped by a methodological approach able to synthesize the geological, hydrogeological and thermodynamic properties influencing the geoexchange potential of the subsoil. The comparison between the obtained thematic (potential) maps and the possible final users distribution provides an overview of the possible development of the geothermal solution in the investigated area. The Mo.nalis.a model should be used as a tool to define the distribution of heat demands in the reference territory and to find the most suitable local geothermal resource to satisfy the industrial thermal needs.