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Description
The aim of the project is to structure a deep geothermal energy database, on the basis of which a unique interactive map will be created and published. The database will contain an overview of all exploration blocks and exploitation fields for the use of geothermal water for energy purposes, relevant well data and a map of the geothermal gradient in the Republic of Croatia. The Project includes the analysis of about 500 discovery wells drilled outside the boundaries of existing exploitation fields of hydrocarbons.
Summary of project results
The project aimed to address several key issues important for the development of renewable energy sources, and in this project, this refers to the development of geothermal energy for energy purposes in the Republic of Croatia. The first objective of the Project was to structure a comprehensive well database that includes relevant well data and a representation of the geothermal gradient in the Pannonian Basin in Croatia. The well database and the representation of the geothermal gradient form the basis for the development of further research and development of geothermal energy in Croatia.
Transparency and availability of data was the second key objective of the project. For the first time, data on relevant existing wells are becoming publicly available. This transparency enables better information for existing and future investors, which contributes to a better understanding of the geothermal energy potential in Croatia and encourages further investments in the renewable geothermal energy source.
The third objective includes the creation and public publication of the first interactive geothermal energy map in Croatia. This map provides a visual representation of relevant well data and the geothermal gradient, which will facilitate access to and use of data and information.
Addressing all these issues is crucial to achieving the objectives of the Energy and Climate Change Programme. First, the creation of a comprehensive database contributes to the development of geothermal energy. The use of geothermal energy reduces dependence on fossil fuels and consequently reduces greenhouse gas emissions. Second, the development of geothermal energy improves Croatia''s energy security by diversifying energy sources and reducing fossil fuel imports. Transparency and public availability of data promote sustainable development. The use of geothermal energy has fewer negative impacts on the environment. This protects natural resources for future generations. The project significantly contributes to the objectives of the Energy and Climate Change Programme by promoting renewable energy sources, increasing energy security and fostering sustainable development.
The first activity "Database Creation" begins with a review of available well documentation. After reviewing the available documentation, wells were selected based on data quality and temperature measurement data. The data was entered into formatted tables according to the functional specification, including the well name, geographic coordinates, depth, year of construction, current status, and maximum measured bottomhole temperature, and the type of testing performed with basic measurement results.
After reviewing the data, the temperature gradient was calculated from the input data and displayed as a temperature change per 100 meters of depth. The selected and calculated data became the basis for creating a geothermal gradient map in raster format.
Digitization of electrical logging curves and creation of composite diagrams for selected wells are also part of this activity.
The second activity "Data Processing and Display" includes the display of basic well data and the display of polygons of geothermal water exploration areas and geothermal water exploitation fields. In this activity, a raster map of the geothermal gradient was created.
The third activity "Publish an interactive map" ends by connecting the final data to the ArcGIS Enterprise Portal. User rights are added within the portal and the map will be published on the Agency''s GIS portal.
One of the most important achievements of the Project is the creation of a comprehensive database on geothermal resources in the Republic of Croatia in the Pannonian Basin. This database, which includes detailed information on wells, temperatures and geothermal gradient, represents the basis for further research and development of geothermal energy. At the same time, the digitization of curves and the creation of composite diagrams have enabled a better understanding of the geothermal characteristics of individual areas within the Pannonian Basin.
This result has an important impact on the further development of geothermal energy exploitation in the Republic of Croatia. For example, for experts in the field of geothermal energy, the creation of a database is a source of valuable information that will facilitate their planning of exploration activities and identification of potential locations for future projects. Also, for investors in geothermal projects, this data provides a basis for assessing the profitability of investments and making decisions.
The publication of an interactive map enables a visual display of geothermal data and easy access to information on exploration areas and exploitation fields of geothermal water. This has a positive impact on decision-makers, enabling them to better understand the geothermal potential.
In addition, the Project resulted in the creation of a raster map of the geothermal gradient, which is useful for researchers and experts in the field of geological exploration of geothermal waters. These data allow for a detailed study of temperature variations and the identification of areas with high potential for geothermal energy development.
Within the framework of the Project, data from a total of more than 3,300 wells were used. Of the total number of wells, 2,723 wells were examined in detail. Of the total number of wells examined, 562 wells are located outside the defined hydrocarbon exploitation fields, while the remaining 2,161 wells are located within the existing hydrocarbon exploitation fields.
Overall, the achieved results of the Deep Geothermal Energy Project have a positive impact on various target groups, including investors, local communities, scientific and educational institutions and the general public. The creation of a database, interactive maps and a raster map of the geothermal gradient provides the foundation for the further development of geothermal energy in Croatia, promoting a sustainable energy sector and stimulating economic development.