SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 22nd May. (EUROPA PRESS) –
The Canary Islands’ Shallow Geothermal Energy research project, known as SAGE4CAN, has completed a successful thermal response test (TRTs) in one of the flows of the Tajogaite volcano on La Palma. The aim was to showcase the significant potential of shallow geothermal energy in decarbonising the heating and cooling sector, especially in urban-volcanic environments like the Canary Islands.
Heading the project is Alejandro García Gil, a senior scientist at Spain’s Geological and Mining Institute (IGME) under the Higher Council for Scientific Research (CSIC), in collaboration with the University of La Laguna.
Shallow geothermal technology harnesses the heat stored in the upper layers of the subsoil, typically up to around 100 meters deep, for building air conditioning and hot water generation. Unlike deep geothermal, shallow geothermal utilises the relatively stable ground temperature close to the surface.
TRTs are essential in evaluating the soil’s capacity to transfer heat in shallow geothermal systems. This test is critical for accurately designing the geothermal air conditioning system to ensure optimal efficiency and performance.
The completion of these TRTs represents a significant achievement for the Canary Islands, marking the first time such tests have been conducted in the archipelago. Carried out in the unique volcanic setting of the Tajogaite volcano, these tests will provide valuable insights into the behaviour of geothermal energy under extreme conditions, according to Juan Carlos Santamarta, a researcher at the University of La Laguna and project member. This milestone also signifies significant progress in the project following years of execution and studies across various islands like El Hierro and Lanzarote.
The project seeks to incorporate the hydrogeological regime in calculating the theoretical and technical potential of shallow geothermal energy in the Canary Islands. It is an innovative approach as it’s the first time resource renewability and therefore sustainability have been considered, clarifies García-Gil.
Additionally, it aims to promote the use of this form of urban air conditioning, which is uncommon in the archipelago, aligning with Spain and the EU’s objectives of energy efficiency and renewable energy. SAGE4CAN aligns with Spain’s priorities in researching low-carbon technologies and sustainable resource innovation.
Furthermore, the project doesn’t solely focus on technical aspects but also addresses key elements like resource assessment, sustainable and efficient management of shallow geothermal energy, and identifying potential conflicts and environmental risks associated with its usage. Hence, the project stands as a pioneering exploration of renewable energy alternatives in an archipelago heavily reliant on fossil fuel imports. Apart from its impact on reducing greenhouse gas emissions and enhancing energy security, SAGE4CAN also aims to stimulate technological and economic growth in the region.
With the successful conclusion of these thermal response tests in La Palma, the project moves onward towards demonstrating the potential of shallow geothermal energy as a crucial tool in combating climate change and progressing towards a more sustainable energy future.
