This project responds to increasing pressure on food production, water resources and energy security in southern Europe. By combining geothermal energy with controlled-environment agriculture and industrial use, the hub provides a stable, low-carbon energy model while supporting sustainable hydroponic food production and wider industrial activity.
System Design & Features
- Primary energy source from deep and shallow geothermal resources, providing stable low-carbon power and thermal energy
- Hydroponic agriculture facilities using controlled environments for high-efficiency food production
- Thermal energy used for heating and cooling agricultural and industrial processes
- Solar PV and wind generation supplement the primary energy supply
- Slow-flow hydro storage balances supply and demand using local topography
- A control centre manages energy flows between generation, storage and energy users
- EV charging infrastructure supports logistics and delivery fleets
- Grid connection enables participation in balancing markets and supports additional revenue opportunities
Benefits & Outcomes
- Enables year-round production of fresh produce with reduced land and water usage
- Reduces energy costs for agriculture and associated industries
- Provides stable, low-carbon energy supply
- Reduces exposure to climate volatility and extreme weather
- Supports local industry and supply chains
- Contributes to regional grid stability through balancing services
Development Context & Phasing
- Phase 1: Development of a large-scale hydroponic facility powered by geothermal, Solar PV and wind, supported by hydro storage. Operational data from this phase can inform deeper geothermal expansion.
- Phase 2: Expansion into a broader Renewable Energy Hub supplying energy, heating and cooling to a wider industrial cluster.
PandoREH is evaluating suitable sites in Spain where geothermal potential, solar resource and topography align to support an efficient integrated energy system.
About the project
Location:
Spain - illustrative global deployment model
Capacity:
TBD, subject to detailed site assessment
Energy Sources:
Geothermal, solar PV and wind
Off-takers:
Hydroponics, manufacturing facilities, EV Charging and the electricity grid
Storage:
Slow-flow hydro storage
Grid Connected:
Yes
