The drilling of the exploratory geothermal well GT-1 (VGGT-1) marks the final stage of research into the geothermal potential of the Velika Gorica area.
This research is being conducted as part of the project "Preparation and Exploration of Geothermal Potential in the Context of District Heating." The project represents a crucial step towards enhancing Croatia’s energy independence and developing sustainable energy solutions for local communities.
The well, which will reach a depth of nearly 3 kms, will allow for an accurate assessment of the geothermal water’s energy potential by measuring its temperature and flow rate. The expected water temperature at the outlet could range between 90 and 140°C, creating opportunities for its integration into Velika Gorica’s district heating system.
“Croatia is rich in geothermal potential, and this investment is part of a broader strategy for energy independence. The Government of the Republic of Croatia will continue to support projects that utilise renewable energy sources and contribute to economic growth and development," said Goran Romek, State Secretary of the Ministry of Economy and representative of the Prime Minister of Croatia. "Croatia faces the challenge of transitioning to an energy-efficient and sustainable heating system, and geothermal energy plays a key role in achieving these goals," he added.
"In the context of the growing need for energy security and the ongoing energy transition in the Republic of Croatia, geothermal energy offers unique solutions that are stable, renewable, reliable, independent of weather conditions, and environmentally friendly. For these reasons, the drilling of the exploratory geothermal well in Velika Gorica represents the foundation for a potential transformation of the heating system in continental Croatia and a key step towards creating a sustainable heating system that will utilize domestic resources to reduce dependence on energy imports," emphasized Marijan Krpan, President of the Management Board of the Hydrocarbon Agency. "The Pannonian Basin area has significant geothermal potential that we can and should fully utilize to further develop district heating and ensure the energy independence of local communities. If the results of previous research are confirmed, and I firmly believe they will be, this model could become the standard for the development of heating systems across continental Croatia and an inspiration for the further development of geothermal energy in our country."
The project "Preparation and Exploration of Geothermal Potential in the Context of District Heating" has secured €50.8 million (approx. US$53.5mn) through the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), as part of an initiative to promote energy efficiency, district heating, and renewable energy sources. The total investment in Velika Gorica exceeds €11 million (approx. US$11.5mn).
Velika Gorica’s Mayor, Krešimir Ačkar, underlined the significance of this infrastructure project for the local community: "The geothermal potential exploration project in Velika Gorica is one of the most important strategic projects in the coming period because we expect it will provide the residents of Velika Gorica with cheaper and environmentally friendly heating. Thanks to the government's energy measures package, we have not felt an increase in energy prices recently, but we certainly need a long-term solution for more affordable heating."
To carry out the project, the Hydrocarbon Agency has signed a contract with CROSCO Drilling & Well Services, a member of the INA Group, which will execute all phases of well construction on a "turnkey" basis. Leveraging its extensive experience in drilling operations, CROSCO will ensure high-quality execution and efficiency throughout the process.
"INA, together with its service companies CROSCO and STSI, is a leading force in Croatia when it comes to new exploration projects—both in the field of geothermal energy and in traditional oil and gas resources. We are pleased that the Hydrocarbon Agency has recognized us as a reliable partner for the implementation of their geothermal projects. In addition to supporting other investors, INA is also initiating investments in geothermal projects in Croatia, which we consider a valuable addition to our portfolio of oil and gas exploration and production," stated Zsuzsanna Ortutay, President of the Management Board of INA.