The GEOSYN project is dedicated to transforming industrial energy systems by unlocking the full potential of geothermal energy.
Our mission is to develop an innovative, high-temperature steam heat pump integrated with a heat-powered refrigeration cycle using water as a natural working fluid. This cutting-edge solution will enable industries to maximize the cascading use of geothermal energy while offering flexibility, efficiency, and sustainability.
Beyond technology development, GEOSYN considers and places a key importance on awareness raising activities, stakeholder engagement, engagement with policy and policy makers via the provision of policy recommendations drawn from the GEOSYN expertise and experience, and the importance of increasing social acceptance.
2. In which countries do you work? Demo sites and/or consortium partners.
The GEOSYN consortium brings together 10 organizations from 5 European countries (Italy, Denmark, Norway, France, and Ukraine), each representing different levels of geothermal maturity and covering the entire value chain: from academic research to technological development and industrial implementation.
- Italy – APRE, UNIFI, COSVIG, RIVACOLD, S.M.F.
- Norway – SINTEF As, SINTEF Energi As
- Denmark – SDU
- Ukraine – Geothermal Ukraine
- France – NEO-ECO.
There are two demo sites:
(Italy / Food sector) – This case study examines the integration of geothermal energy into a cheese production facility in Monterotondo Marittimo, Tuscany, Italy. The GEOSYN solution will be installed on the geothermal return pipe to extract thermal energy for high-temperature heat and cold generation. This demonstration site highlights the potential of geothermal energy to significantly improve sustainable practices in the dairy industry.
(Ukraine / Cement sector) – This case study examines the integration of geothermal energy into a cheese production facility in Monterotondo Marittimo, Tuscany, Italy. The GEOSYN solution will be installed on the geothermal return pipe to extract thermal energy for high-temperature heat and cold generation. This demonstration site highlights the potential of geothermal energy to significantly improve sustainable practices in the dairy industry.
3. What do you see as the biggest challenge for Europe or even worldwide in the scope of energy efficiency?
The biggest challenge is the integration of energy-efficient technologies into existing infrastructure at scale—while ensuring affordability and social equity.
Retrofitting these systems requires significant investment, technical expertise, and often public-private coordination. Additionally, the lack of awareness, availability of skilled labor, cohesive policy frameworks and incentives across regions hinders widespread adoption. In summary, the challenge is not only technical—it is systemic, requiring alignment between policy, economy, industry, and society to create a resilient, efficient, and inclusive energy future.
4. What is the importance of collaboration in this field? Highlight social aspects.
Cross-sector collaboration—between governments, industries, academia, and civil society—ensures that geothermal energy solutions are practical, inclusive, and widely adopted. Collaborative decision-making with communities leads to more sustainable outcomes. When local people are involved in shaping and implementing energy projects, they’re more likely to engage with and trust the process. This social trust is critical to the success of energy transitions. Moreover, collaboration across European countries and projects enables knowledge sharing and supports less-resourced regions in adopting best practices. It helps bridge gaps between advanced technologies and vulnerable populations that might otherwise be left behind. Finally, fostering collaboration in this field promotes shared responsibility and social innovation. Tackling energy challenges together builds a sense of solidarity around the climate and energy goals that affect us all.
