The project has focused on demonstrating a novel geothermal solution for industrial heating and cooling, while also building the evidence base needed to support future uptake.
GEOSYN has recently completed its mid term review and at this point the project has clearly made strong progress in its first 18 months, moving from concept development into concrete technical, analytical and outreach activities. This early phase has shown that the project is not only developing technology, but also addressing the practical, environmental and societal conditions that will shape its real-world use.
On the technical side a major achievement has been the design and realisation of the two core systems: a heat-powered cooling system and a high-temperature heat pump. These components were fully engineered, with component selection, technical drawings, circuit diagrams and layouts completed, and both units delivered to the laboratory for testing. This is an important step because it moves the project from design work into validation, allowing partners to assess performance under controlled conditions and refine the solution for industrial application.
Alongside this, the project has worked on the modelling and operational side of the technology. A preliminary dynamic simulation model has been developed to better understand how the GEOSYN solution behaves in different conditions, and flexibility strategies for start-up and ramp-up have been defined. This is particularly relevant for industrial users, because a technology can only be adopted at scale if it is not only efficient, but also reliable and adaptable to real operational needs.
The first 18 months have also produced a strong knowledge base on where and how geothermal solutions could be deployed. The project screened a large number of industrial sectors and identified suitable contexts for integration, while also selecting virtual case studies that will support further analysis. In parallel, environmental and lifecycle data collection has begun, laying the groundwork for future sustainability assessments and helping ensure that the project can demonstrate both technical feasibility and environmental credibility.
Equally important has been the work on social acceptance and stakeholder engagement. GEOSYN has gathered input from stakeholders in different countries, mapped industrial actors, and explored how geothermal heating and cooling are perceived in different contexts. This work shows that technical innovation alone is not enough; public awareness, trust, and clear communication are essential if geothermal technologies are to be accepted and adopted. By combining surveys, engagement events and stakeholder mapping, the project has started to build that wider foundation.
Communication and dissemination have also been well established. The project has created a clear identity, launched its website and social media channels, produced videos and other communication materials, and built cooperation with related EU projects through the Geo-Cluster. This has given GEOSYN a visible and active presence, helping ensure that results are shared beyond the consortium and that the project is positioned to influence both professional and policy audiences.
Overall, the first 18 months show a project that is progressing in a structured and balanced way. GEOSYN has advanced its technology development, strengthened its analytical framework, and laid the foundations for stakeholder engagement and dissemination. The GEOSYN partners are commited to support the broader deployment of geothermal heating and cooling in industry, while also contributing to the policy and communication conditions needed for long-term impact.
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