Utilizing Geothermal Energy for a Heated Swimming Pool System in the Mataloko Geothermal Plant Area

Geothermal energy offers a clean, sustainable heat source for swimming pools, replacing conventional fossil-fueled heating [2]. This study presents the design of a geothermal heated swimming pool system in the Mataloko Geothermal Plant area (Flores, Indonesia). The goal is to utilize available geothermal heat to maintain a 30 °C pool for recreation and therapy, thereby providing community benefits and improving public perception of geothermal projects [1]. We detail the system components, heat transfer calculations, and design specifications needed to meet the pool’s thermal demands. Calculations show that a geothermal fluid supply of similar order to previous designs (e.g. ~12.7 L/s at 110 °C) can sustain pool temperatures of 26–30 °C [2]. Heat loss analysis indicates evaporation is the dominant thermal loss, comprising roughly 50–70% of total heat loss [3]. A heat exchanger-based design is proposed to transfer geothermal heat to the pool water while keeping systems separate for safety. The results demonstrate the technical feasibility of the Mataloko geothermal pool system under local conditions, with potential economic viability comparable to other geothermal pool projects (e.g. net positive value and ~17% internal rate of return over 10 years) [2]. This direct-use application exemplifies how geothermal resources can be harnessed beyond power generation, offering both recreational value and educational showcase of renewable energy in the community.