Evaluation and possible direct utilization of low-to medium-enthalpy geothermal resources for the sustainable development of the African continent

Low- and high-enthalpy geothermal resources exist throughout the African continent, but their utilization is still minimal. The rift valley area includes several high-enthalpy resource manifestations, but numerous medium- and low-enthalpy resources characterize the mainland. Geothermal resources offer a large energy potential suitable for several users. The main goal of this article is the assessment of the energy potential of the geothermal resources in Africa for direct use. The analysis of different types of medium- and low-enthalpy resources is carried out. The use of absorption cycles for cold production is considered here. A parametric analysis of the resource conditions, with special reference to the temperature level, allowed the estimation of the cooling power potential connected to the low to medium geothermal energy resources available in the African continent. On the other hand, possible end users of this resource are identified cold room storage and building cooling. The present study covers several aspects, from thermodynamic modelling to environmental analysis. The mathematical model allows the simulation of the cooling system and, through parametric analyses, the most suitable cycle characteristics are determined in compliance with the potential of the available geothermal resource. The Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodology is adopted for the sustainability analysis and the assessment of environmental compatibility of the proposed solutions. A parametric Life Cycle Inventory (LCI) is developed, modeling the components according to the required size for each use. The main outcome of the present work is that the low enthalpy Geothermal available in the African continent can offer significant energy savings and large environmental benefits, which may play a fundamental role in the sustainable development of this area.