Thermae: Exploring the potential of geothermal energy of a hybrid facilty in Gothenburg

Abstract

Currently, the world is heavily dependent on non-renewable sources of energy such as fossil fuel. This has led to a number of environmental issues such as air pollution, deforestation, and climate change. The need to transition to renewable energy sources has become increasingly urgent, and many countries have set ambitious targets to reduce their carbon footprint and increase their use of clean energy. However, while renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydropower have gained significant momentum in recent years, there are still challenges to their widespread adoption. For example, the intermittency and unpredictability of solar and wind power can make them less reliable for large-scale energy production. There are also environmental concerns surrounding the production and disposal of some renewable technologies, such as solar panels and batteries. Geothermal energy is an alternative renewable energy source that has several advantages over other forms of renewable energy. It is a reliable and consistent source of energy that can be used for both electricity generation and heating/cooling applications. Additionally, geothermal energy does not rely on weather conditions or the availability of sunlight or wind, making it a more predictable and dependable source of power. Hence architects are called upon to provide creative holistic and sustainable solutions to the growing demand for energy and recreation facilities in urban areas. The aim of this thesis is to investigate the potential of creating a hybrid facility that combines a geothermal power plant and a thermal bath in Gothenburgh. In doing this, the project also aims to explore how the energy produced from such an environment can be reinterpreted and poetically expressed in architecture, providing unique spatial qualities that enrich the human experience, inspire and educate the mind.