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Description
The project aims to increase the production of energy from renewable sources, reduce CO2 emissions and increase the security of supply. These goals will be achieved through the preparation of technical documentation for the use of geothermal energy, which is a prerequisite for the construction of wells and geothermal energy production, with the planned conjoined usage of geothermal energy (district heating and commercial use).
Geothermal energy obtained from the Korenovo GT - 1 well, will be used for heating purposes to supply the planned pool complex in Veliko Korenovo with thermal energy, Korenovo Business Zone, and greenhouse agricultural production in the Veliko Korenovo area. The city of Bjelovar as the applicant, and Terme Bjelovar d.o.o. and Elfa hf. from Iceland as project partners are the main target groups. Predicted end users are users of the pool complex, entrepreneurs in the Korenovo Business Zone, farmers who will be utilizing geothermal energy for production activities, residents from the local area where the project is being implemented while increasing the air quality due to reduced CO2 emissions and economic development on the benefit of an entire community.
There are three activities through which the project will be implemented under Project Call 1, point 3.7.1.): 1. development of technical documentation for geothermal energy; 2. project management and administration, and 3. information and communication.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address the underutilization of geothermal energy resources in Veliko Korenovo, a part of the Bjelovar region. Despite having significant geothermal potential, the lack of technical documentation, inadequate infrastructure, and limited local expertise were major barriers to the effective use of this renewable energy source. The project sought to overcome these obstacles by preparing the necessary technical documentation and improving the capacities of local stakeholders to implement sustainable energy projects. Additionally, the project aligned with Croatia’s energy and climate goals by focusing on reducing carbon emissions and promoting energy security.
The project prepared comprehensive technical documentation for the exploration and exploitation of geothermal energy in the Veliko Korenovo area. Key outputs included the development of a main-execution design for the geothermal well Korenovo GT-1, a feasibility study for its drilling and operation, and an environmental impact assessment. These documents ensured compliance with regulatory standards and set the stage for geothermal energy utilization.
In addition to technical work, the project implemented communication and capacity-building activities. A project website, available in Croatian and English, provided detailed information, while promotional materials, including brochures, posters, and branded items, were distributed to raise awareness. Two specialized radio programs and 16 online publications shared updates about the project’s progress. Furthermore, the project held an opening and closing conference, as well as workshops and a roundtable, to engage stakeholders and share insights.
The project’s outputs directly contributed to measurable indicators. The expected installed capacity for geothermal energy production reached 5 MW, significantly higher than the initial estimate of 3 MW. The estimated annual production of geothermal energy is 25,920 MWh, with an annual reduction in CO2 emissions of 3,500 tons. These achievements underscore the project’s role in advancing renewable energy solutions in the region. The project established a solid foundation for renewable energy development in Veliko Korenovo, benefiting various stakeholders. Local businesses and agricultural enterprises gained access to a clean and affordable energy source, while the community as a whole experienced improved air quality due to reduced emissions. Public awareness of geothermal energy''s benefits increased, fostering support for future sustainable projects. Additionally, the project strengthened the City of Bjelovar’s capacity to manage complex renewable energy initiatives, ensuring long-term sustainability.
Summary of bilateral results
The Icelandic partner, EFLA Consulting Engineers, provided invaluable expertise in geothermal energy, enhancing the technical quality of project documentation and ensuring alignment with international best practices. EFLA facilitated knowledge transfer through workshops and a study trip to Iceland, where Croatian stakeholders learned about advanced geothermal systems and their implementation. This collaboration not only improved the project’s outcomes but also fostered a productive exchange of knowledge and experience. Bilateral cooperation yielded significant results, including enhanced local expertise and practical insights into geothermal energy exploitation. The study trip to Iceland and bilateral workshops allowed Croatian stakeholders to observe operational geothermal projects and engage directly with experienced professionals. This partnership also inspired discussions about establishing a geothermal energy excellence center in Bjelovar, highlighting the potential for continued collaboration beyond the project. The City of Bjelovar and EFLA Consulting Engineers have expressed interest in further joint initiatives, including the development of geothermal infrastructure and knowledge-sharing programs. Future collaborations could focus on scaling geothermal energy applications and fostering innovation in renewable energy solutions.