In his introductory speech, Mr. Krpan gave a presentation on the topic of the Future of Geothermal Energy in the Energy Transition from the Croatian Perspective. He pointed out the great geothermal potential in the area of the Pannonian Basin, which we can and should use to the full extent for the needs of further development of heating and energy independence. He also showed a map with prominent areas where geothermal energy could be used for both electricity production and heating purposes. It was emphasized that significant efforts have been made to attract investors since 2018, and a big step forward was achieved with the last tender in October 2023, which brought in serious investors who know how to use this potential and turn it into long-term and positive projects.
"Geothermal energy is complementary to both the sun and the wind, and deserves its place in the future national energy mix," Krpan concluded.
At the panel entitled Geothermal cities – Integrating Geothermal Energy in Urban Development and District Heating, Ms. Martina Tuschl presented the project for the construction of an exploratory geothermal well in Velika Gorica, as the first of the four selected cities in which geothermal research will be carried out.
"The project is financed by funds from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan, and a few days ago we started drilling on the Velika Gorica well. The works will last until June 2025, and with the assumption of a positive outcome and expected positive results of the examination of the geothermal potential of the Velika Gorica exploration well, further activities will follow on the construction of geothermal infrastructure and connection to the heating system of Velika Gorica", Tuschl emphasized.
