Jörgen participates in Svensk Geoenergi’s feature on future cooling solutions

In the latest issue of Svensk Geoenergi, cooling and geothermal energy are in focus. On pages 12–18, EKA is featured in two ways: through a profile interview with our CEO, Jörgen Rogstam, and through his expert contribution to the thematic section on geothermal cooling solutions.

From hockey player to specialist in energy-efficient ice rinks

In the interview, Jörgen shares his journey from hockey player to consultant and entrepreneur. One of the defining milestones in his career was the development of one of Sweden’s first ice rinks using carbon dioxide-based refrigeration technology — an innovative solution that later became a model for many other facilities in Sweden and abroad.

The article also highlights how EKA today works with ice rinks, swimming facilities, sports arenas, and other complex energy projects where heating and cooling systems must work together seamlessly to achieve maximum energy efficiency.

Geoenergy is more than heating.

In the feature article “Cooling from the Ground – An Underrated Resource,” Jörgen contributes his expertise on how geothermal energy can be used to create energy-efficient cooling systems. Although geoenergy is often associated with ground-source heating, there is significant potential to use the ground as a source for both comfort cooling and process cooling.

Jörgen also highlights the importance of proper system design and a clear understanding of the interaction between heating and cooling demands. In facilities such as ice rinks, geoenergy can provide both heating for the building and supplemental cooling that eases the demand on the refrigeration system during warmer periods. The result is a more energy-efficient and integrated overall solution.

Carbon dioxide and geoenergy – a powerful combination

One of the key conclusions of the article is that carbon dioxide-based refrigeration systems work particularly well when combined with geoenergy. By providing stable, relatively low temperatures, geothermal energy storage helps refrigeration systems operate more efficiently, even during warmer periods. Experiences from projects such as the Gimo ice rink demonstrate how this combination can create sustainable and long-term energy solutions.

Greater focus on cooling in the buildings of the future

The demand for comfort cooling is increasing as summers become warmer, and expectations for indoor environments continue to rise. Jörgen notes that cooling will play an increasingly important role in the energy systems of the future — not only in commercial buildings, but also in residential properties and public facilities.

For EKA, this means maintaining a strong focus on developing integrated energy solutions where heating, cooling, and energy storage work together to create robust, energy-efficient, and sustainable facilities.