The Geothermal Food Systems (GFS) project uses geothermal resources to provide heat, electricity and carbon dioxide for glasshouses, in an integrated technology that secures the supply of key resources to New Zealand’s horticulture sector.
A key barrier for decarbonisation of glasshouse operators is that the natural gas used for heating is also used as a supply of carbon dioxide (for supplementing photosynthesis, improving growth rates and yields). Replacement of natural gas for a low-carbon alternative (e.g. ground-source heat pumps), would mean the loss of a convenient CO2 supplementation source.
The GFS concept is comprised of three main components:
Whilst the above technologies already exist in the commercial/near commercial space, uncertainty remains on how the systems can best operate together, i.e., the interconnectivity and relationship between the technologies coupled with geothermal energy.
Objective: Test assumptions and fill knowledge gaps to determine the feasibility of continuing to a demonstration (pre-commercial) installation. Activities:
Objective: Form an integrated concept design of the Geothermal Food System, including high level engineering calculations. Activities:
We are looking for horticulture partners provide insights into glasshouse design and operation, product needs, decarbonisation demands, and market specific processes.
Contact us to discuss potential alignment and interest.
