Advancing Sustainable Heating and Cooling Solutions in the Danube Region

Heating and cooling account for a large share of Europe’s overall energy consumption, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe where many buildings and district energy systems still rely heavily on fossil fuels. As the European Union accelerates its transition towards climate neutrality, improving the sustainability and efficiency of heating and cooling systems has become a key priority. Within this context, the Danube Region Programme (DRP) supports collaborative initiatives that help regions modernise energy infrastructure, promote renewable solutions, and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Two DRP-funded projects, Danube GeoHeCo and REHEATEAST, address complementary aspects of this challenge. Both initiatives aim to transform the way heating and cooling are produced and delivered across the Danube Region by promoting renewable energy sources, improving the efficiency of existing systems, and strengthening cooperation among energy stakeholders.

The central focus of the Danube GeoHeCo project is the promotion of shallow geothermal energy as a sustainable source for both heating and cooling. The project looks into how geothermal systems can use the stable temperature of the ground to provide efficient thermal energy throughout the year, making them a versatile solution for residential, commercial, and public buildings. By developing and optimising hybrid geothermal technologies and demonstrating their potential in different regional contexts, the project supports the wider adoption of this renewable energy source and helps reduce reliance on conventional fossil-fuel-based systems. The project also explores how geothermal heating and cooling systems can be integrated into current energy frameworks, allowing communities to gradually shift away from fossil fuels while maintaining reliable heating supply.

The REHEATEAST project complements this approach by focusing on the sustainability of district heating and cooling networks, which remain an important part of energy supply in many cities across the Danube Region. Many of these systems were built decades ago and rely heavily on fossil fuels. REHEATEAST addresses these challenges by promoting the integration of renewable energy sources, improving building energy efficiency, and encouraging the use of waste heat and other locally available resources to supply both heating and cooling demands. The project works to strengthen the efficiency and resilience of district heating systems by analysing local conditions, developing strategic roadmaps, and fostering cooperation between municipalities, energy utilities, and policymakers. By improving the design and operation of heating networks, the project contributes to long-term reductions in energy consumption and emissions.

A key strength of both initiatives lies in their transnational approach. Challenges related to heating and cooling across the Danube Region are often shared, as many countries face similar issues related to ageing infrastructure, dependence on imported energy, and limited integration of renewable heat sources. Through partnerships involving municipalities, research institutions, energy agencies, and industry stakeholders, both projects facilitate the exchange of knowledge, technical expertise, and best practices. This collaborative approach helps develop solutions for a more sustainable, efficient, and resilient heating and cooling sector across the Danube Region that can be further adapted and replicated across multiple countries and regional contexts.