Hybrid Geothermal and PV Installations for Cooling and Heating Systems: Synergy for Sustainability in Tertiary and Industry Sectors

Recent studies confirm the potential efficiency of geothermal resources for maintaining comfortable building temperatures through cooling and heating solutions. In addition, a variety of initiatives have been promoted to effectively reduce both environmental concerns and energy crisis by the integration of renewables. Under this framework, this paper describes and assesses hybrid geothermal and photovoltaic (PV) installations to provide sustainable solutions. Hybrid geothermal–PV systems are evaluated as a strategic opportunity to increase the presence of geothermal energy within the hybrid heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) market. While upfront capital costs associated with geothermal technology can suppose some barriers, the synergistic coupling with PV installations can provide a compelling solution and reliable energy supply, in terms of both economic feasibility and the energy (electricity) consumption. With this aim, a detailed economic and energy analysis is then conducted to evaluate such hybrid solutions connected to the grid, including potential energy storage system. HVAC demand optimized battery energy storage system (ESS) and PV installation connected to the grid are considered as hybrid renewable solution in a Mediterranean location case study based on the tertiary and industry sectors. It is carried out by the authors from real energy demand data collected for 3 years. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed hybrid system reduces electricity consumption by 25% compared to a conventional air-to-air HVAC configuration, while geothermal operation achieves 34% lower heating demand and 26% lower cooling demand. These improvements highlight the hybrid system potential for enhanced energy efficiency and load-shifting capability in tertiary and industry sectors.