Promoting Sustainability and Energy Efficiency in Higher Education Through the Optimized Management of Geothermal Resources

Abstract

The present research shows a novel approach for the acquisition of specific competences related to energy efficiency in the Bachelor’s Degree in Electrical Engineering by the use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) when designing shallow geothermal installations. In particular, the article is focused on defining the thermal behaviour of the subsoil, a critical issue when performing a geothermal energy project. The approach is aimed at improving the comprehension and interpretation of thermal parameters and its role within the operation of a shallow geothermal system. The contribution is originated from a depth research process of the authors in the field that has resulted in the creation of a rigorous but at the same time simple systematic methodology for use at an educational level. In this way, the presented geothermal procedure (currently implemented in the Electrical Engineering Degree) will help university students to contextualize the theoretical knowledge and to better understand and manage the challenges they will have to face in their future professional career.