Subsurface temperature profiles across ten Egyptian cities: mapping low-enthalpy geothermal potential for regional energy adaptation

Abstract We present comprehensive data of daily subsurface temperature profiles for ten Egyptian cities, derived from Typical Meteorological Year (TMY) data. While ground temperature is a critical parameter for geothermal energy applications and building thermal performance, long-term measured subsurface temperature data across Egypt remains scarce. The presented data fills this gap by utilizing a heat transfer model to simulate annual thermal variations at depths ranging from 0 to -10 meters. The data records capture essential physical phenomena, including seasonal thermal inversion, amplitude damping, and phase lag consistent with the diverse climatic zones of Egypt, from the Mediterranean coast to the arid regions of Upper Egypt. The model was validated by comparing its outputs against measured borehole data. The analysis yielded a Mean Absolute Error of 3%, confirming the reliability and accuracy of the modeling approach. The presented data provides a reliable resource for engineers and researchers to conduct feasibility studies for ground-source heat pumps and earth-to-air heat exchangers, facilitating the development of shallow geothermal potential across the region.