Geothermal-solar hybrid systems for Australian rural industries

This presentation will introduce a full-scale solar PV and ground-source heat pump system, with gas backup, designed for heating and cooling at a commercial broiler facility in Yanderra, New South Wales. The hybrid system will see the installation of a 100-200 kW thermal ground source heat pump system to replace LPG as a fuel for heating and cooling a single shed for housing chickens. The significant economic and environmental benefits of the hybrid system will be demonstrated, showcasing how it enhances operational efficiency, reduces greenhouse gas emissions, and offers substantial cost savings.

Our presenter is Dr. Xiaoying (Annie) Gu, Annie is a research fellow at The University of Melbourne. Her joint research group is one of the world leaders in shallow geothermal technologies. In recent years, Dr. Gu has focused significantly on shallow geothermal energy, particularly horizontal systems including geothermal pavements, to address society’s greatest challenge of providing clean and renewable energy to meet the exponential rise in energy demand. She has published high-quality journal papers and presented her work at several prestigious international conferences. Dr. Gu has been involved in analysing full-scale geothermal system data, including a geothermal-solar system in rural industries. Her work has contributed to the broader application and industry recognition of shallow geothermal systems.