Geothermal heating and cooling system in a smart factory in Plovdiv
Overview
Schneider Electric Bulgaria has recently opened a geothermal heating and cooling system at its smart factory in the Trakia Economic Zone, Plovdiv. This innovative system, inaugurated in 2023, marks a shift away from traditional natural gas usage, harnessing the abundant geothermal resources that Bulgaria boasts. With over 840 water sources boasting temperatures reaching up to 103 degrees Celsius, Bulgaria emerges as a veritable hotspot for geothermal potential.
Constructed in collaboration with local firm ReEnergy Engineering, the geothermal system leverages the earth's natural temperature to power closed-loop heat pump units, producing hot water for winter heating and year-round use.
With an investment of EUR 1.8 million, Schneider Electric Bulgaria's geothermal venture signals a significant stride towards carbon neutrality, a commitment echoed in the company's ambitious goal of achieving carbon-neutral operations by 2025. Moreover, the initiative underscores Schneider Electric Bulgaria's dedication to reducing CO2 emissions by 25% across its entire value chain by 2030. Schneider Electric Bulgaria joins the quest to establish the zone as Europe's inaugural carbon-neutral industrial hub, positioning the Trakia Economic Zone as an enticing destination for strategic investors seeking sustainability-driven partnerships.
“The new geothermal system implies the complete elimination of natural gas usage. For Schneider Electric, this is a long-term strategic goal linked to our commitment to achieve carbon neutrality”
Technical details
The geothermal heating and cooling system at the smart factory is designed with "dry" closed-type boreholes, facilitating the circulation of fluid heated by the earth's natural temperature. This innovative setup employs heat pump units to generate hot water for winter heating and year-round domestic use. During transitional seasons, the system offers passive cooling, while active cooling, powered by the refrigeration cycle, kicks in on scorching days. By harnessing the "free" heat of condensation, the system maximizes efficiency, directing it towards domestic hot water production. This integrated approach enables the plant to achieve over 70% savings in electrical energy for heating and cooling. Notably, the closed-loop system taps into inexhaustible earth energy while significantly reducing electrical energy consumption and eschewing the use of underground water resources.