Assessment and mapping of the closed-loop shallow geothermal potential in Cerkno (Slovenia)

Abstract

The economic viability of Borehole Heat Exchangers (BHEs) depends on the ability of the ground to exchange heat, and maps of the shallow geothermal potential are therefore useful planning tools for future installations. In this work, we present the assessment of shallow geothermal potential in Cerkno, a mountain town of 5,000 inhabitants in western Slovenia. The recently developed G.POT method was applied, taking into account site-specific ground thermal parameters and usage profiles depending on climate conditions. This work is part of the EU-funded project GRETA, aiming at supporting the diffusion of GSHPs in the Alpine territory.