FlexGeo – Shaping the future of flexible geothermal energy

Solutions developed

In order to showcase the potential of the FlexGeo approach, a high TRL modular rev. 200 kWel ORC unit with advanced control strategies and operational tool will be installed and demonstrated at a real district heating system at the TUM Campus in Garching, Germany. ORCAN Energy, as an industrial partner, provides valuable know-how for modular ORC technology with many years of experience. The demonstrator itself will be based on the general concept of the already existing commercial ORC modules by ORCAN, as, i.e., installed in Kirchweidach, Germany. Furthermore, the worldwide first reversible ORC test rig, optimized for geothermal applications, has already been installed at the TUM Campus. The obtained results can be directly incorporated into the optimized construction of the demonstrator.

Main results

Increasing the flexibility potential of geothermal power plants from today’s ~ 80 % of their installed capacity from – 100 to + 100. Improving the IRR of a geothermal project by more than 60 % and reducing the levelized costs of energy by up to 30 % compared to a standard geothermal system. Developing a catalogue of at least eight innovative optimal system designs & operational strategies for various settings across Europe. Developing within the project a TRL9 roadmap for the market entry of the rev. ORC modules shortly after the project ends and the FlexGeo’s optimal system design within the next years.