Croatia discovers series of geothermal sources suitable for heating

The results of exploration at the Vinkovci GT-1 well have confirmed the area’s significant geothermal potential, Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency said. Maximum temperature is 131 degrees Celsius.

Vinkovci is the third location in Croatia with positive results, as reservoir temperatures exceeding 100 degrees were earlier confirmed in Velika Gorica and Osijek, Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency revealed. The activities are part of a wider project to develop geothermal potential for district heating for six cities and towns.

“The positive findings of the geothermal exploration in Vinkovci, after Velika Gorica and Osijek, are proof that Croatia has significant geothermal potential and the knowledge to use it. Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency is bringing concrete results through its systematic approach and exploration investment, creating the foundations for further projects for renewable energy sources. Namely, geothermal energy is not only a stable and clean source, but a strategic resource that can contribute to the security of energy supply in Croatia. The results show at the same time that Croatian experts can independently and effectively conduct complex energy projects,” President of the Management Board Marijan Krpan said.

Success at 2,700 meters below ground

Crosco naftni servisi (Crosco Integrated Drilling and Well Services), a member of INA Group, ois conducting the works. At a depth of 2,700 meters in the Vinkovci GT-1 exploratory well, an expert team has measured a maximum temperature, 131 degrees, pointing to the possibility of commercial application of geothermal energy in the heating system.

The location is in Croatia’s northeast, in Slavonia area.

“The exploration in Vinkovci has been conducted in line with the highest technical standards and the project’s planned dynamic. Upon the completion of the exploration at the remaining location, in Zaprešić, Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency plans the development of additional wells at sites with confirmed potential. That way we will establish the production-injection pairs required for a secure and long-term geothermal energy use,” the geothermal energy sector’s Director Martina Tuschl stated.

Opportunity for improving local agriculture

Except for heating, access to heat opens up possibilities for companies. Geothermal potential could be used in agricultural production in the municipality of Jarmine, where the exploratory well is located.

The agency is conducting the project with funding from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP or, in Croatian, NPOO), within which EUR 50.8 million was secured for exploration in four locations: in Velika Gorica, Osijek, Vinkovci and Zaprešić.

Works at the Zaprešić GT-1 (ZapGT-1) site are underway.