Utilization of Geothermal Source in a Closed Cycle Aquaculture System in Italy: Preliminary Results

Abstract

Geothermal fluids, unsuitable for elecmcal energy production, are used for heating of water to supply a fish farm at Castelnuovo V.C. (Pisa, Italy) with recycled water. The geothermal heat, available as steam at 110 is used via plate heat exchangers in order to maintain a temperature of in the water. Freshwater species, in particular elvers, are weaned in a total holding volume of 350 to attain a theoretical total annual production of 20 tonnes. The treatment units of the recycle system include gravitational and mechanical filters and trickling filters, partly operated in a bypass. The system is largely managed by a process controller. Preliminary data on system performance immediately after the start-up phase are presented when the system was stocked with sturgeon, carp, eel and tilapia.