A new greenhouse heated by geothermal energy for the cultivation of Spirulina, a type of algae which is highly nutritious and rich in iron and protein, launches today in Chiusdino, Italy. The innovative pilot project is the first example of geothermal heat supplied by a nearby geothermal power plant and used for Spirulina cultivation.
Greenhouse for Spirulina cultivation heated by geothermal, Chiusdino, Italy
The greenhouse will use both geothermal heat and carbon-free CO2 from the adjacent geothermal power plant, a product of the geothermal energy production process and a substitute for natural emissions, useful for fostering the cultivation of algae. The project, which is part of an agreement between ENEL Green Power and Co.Svi.G. for experimenting on the uses of geothermal energy in algae cultivation signed earlier this year, aims to demonstrate the possibility of developing high-value commercial cultivation near existing geothermal power plants, therefore increasing the economic impact associated with geothermal energy.
The greenhouse is another example of the many direct-uses of geothermal energy in agricultural and food industry, which is increasingly turning to geothermal energy as it meets many of the sectors’ requirements. For more information about geothermal use in agriculture, download the EGEC brochure.
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