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 “pasta and flour production” “wastewater treatment/sludge digestion” and “swimming 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.