Croatia's Ministry of Economy and Sustainable Development has granted approval for a substantial sum of €29,828,555.70 in grants to support the “Preparation and research of geothermal potential in the context of centralized heating” project. This funding has been allocated through the measure C1.2. R1-12 Incentive for energy efficiency, heating, and renewable energy sources, aimed at decarbonizing the energy sector.
A significant moment transpired during the ceremonial signing of the funding agreement, with the presence of key figures, including Minister of Economy and Sustainable Development, Davor Filipović, President of the Management Board of the Croatian Hydrocarbons Agency (AZU), Marijan Krpan, and Director of the Fund for Environmental Protection and Energy Efficiency, Luka Balen.
The Croatian Hydrocarbons Agency (AZU) has been bestowed with the authority to conduct preliminary assessments to ascertain the geothermal potential of sites located within the Republic of Croatia. Following a public tender in early 2023, the agency had already granted geothermal exploration licenses for five specific areas to three separate companies.
In-depth investigations, involving 2D seismic and magnetotelluric (MT) surveys, have been executed within the designated sites offered in the public tender. These surveys are pivotal in identifying two areas suitable for geothermal drilling, significantly reducing the exploration risk. The publication of comprehensive documentation concerning geothermal potential and prospective drilling sites is anticipated, thus fostering the development of geothermal water application projects within the local community.
This investment is poised to enhance the efficient utilization of generated energy and the commercialization of thermal energy derived from renewable sources, marking a pivotal step towards sustainable energy practices.
Notably, the Croatian Hydrocarbons Agency (AZU) recently organized a Roundtable event focused on decarbonization technologies, emphasizing the crucial role of geothermal energy in Croatia's ongoing energy transition.
