North Macedonia is preparing projects for the improvement of geological research and better utilization of geothermal resources and critical raw materials.
A coordination meeting was held at the Ministry of Energy, Mining and Mineral Resources with representatives of the Goce Delčev University in Štip and the Geological Survey.
They discussed possibilities for joint participation in European research projects, as well as initiatives for improving geological research and better utilizing the country’s mineral and geothermal resources, the ministry said.
A key topic of the meeting was the possibility of a joint application to a call within the Horizon Europe program aimed at resource assessment in deep sedimentary and deep-seated deposits.
There is a possibility to establish an international consortium and include foreign partners
The participants discussed the possibility of forming an international consortium and including foreign partners with experience in geological and geothermal research, according to the ministry.
The goal of this joint project is to more precisely determine the country’s geothermal potential through the analysis of available geological and geophysical data. It also aims to conduct laboratory testing and modeling, and if technical and project conditions permit, exploratory drilling to obtain core samples for further scientific analyses, according to the ministry.
The participants agreed to work on a joint project concept and the identification of suitable foreign partners. Geological and expert institutions from Croatia, Slovenia, and Germany are being considered as potential partners.
Of note, Croatia is very active in the development of geothermal energy, while Slovenia recently granted the first concession for geothermal exploration. Serbia is preparing a Geothermal Atlas.
A systemic approach to critical mineral resources is needed
During the discussions, the need for a systemic approach to critical raw materials was stressed, given their increasing importance for the energy sector, new technologies, and economic development.
An initiative for the development of a research program for critical raw materials is being considered. The program would define priorities and future activities for assessing the country’s potential in this area, utilizing the expert and scientific capacities of the Faculty of Natural and Technical Sciences of the Goce Delčev University (UGD).
An initiative has been launched for the development of a catalog of mineral resources
The meeting touched upon Sivec – a specific domestic mineral resource – with a proposal to examine the possibilities and conditions for its adequate protection and recognition through a geographical indication.
An initiative has been launched for the development of a catalog of mineral resources.
The intention is to improve the availability and clarity of geological data, serving as a basis for further research, planning, and promotion of the country’s mineral potential, the ministry added.
