Low-enthalpy geothermal energy as a source of energy and integrated freshwater production in inland areas: Technological and economic feasibility

摘要

The paper presents an innovative approach to freshwater production using geothermal aquifers as a water and energy source. The main parameters which can potentially influence the results of the analysis were selected to investigate their effect on the proposed schemes, e.g. feed water quality, quality of the geothermal resource, concentrate utilisation and cost of freshwater production. A technical and economic feasibility study demonstrates that effective use of geothermal resources can include direct utilisation of geothermal energy in the heating system and the use of the cooled water as a source of freshwater obtained in a desalination unit. The comparison of the costs of freshwater from current freshwater resources in Poland (groundwater and surface water) with those calculated for the geothermal option showed that the costs of the latter are equal to the former. The treatment of geothermal water can bring an improved water balance for drinking purposes. In areas of high water deficit, the solution presented is a good example of the rational management of geothermal resources.