Sustainability of an Open-Loop GWHP System in an Italian Alpine Valley

Shallow geothermal systems (SGSs) for building climatization represent an advantageous alternative to traditional air-conditioning systems, resulting in economic and environmental benefits. Installation of these requires knowledge site-specific geological hydrogeological conditions, which feasibility studies are often evaluated only at the single plant scale, lacking a comprehensive view risking not guarantee system sustainability over time. In this paper methodology sustainable design SGSs is presented. The developed from example on aquifer scale Longarone (Belluno, Italy), where three groundwater heat pumps (GWHPs) were installed industrial area located mountain basin hosting coarse-grained phreatic aquifer, characterized by sediments with high hydraulic conductivity proximal large river (Piave River). Open-loop first analyzed through numerical modeling using FEFLOW software, identifying peculiar features due its interaction surface waters, suggesting possibility greater exploitation. Subsequently, relationship between flow rates thermal plume extensions was obtained, useful providing support evaluation potential interference neighboring systems. study proved representative system, highlighting criticalities area, such as trends temperature alteration, plants, feedback.