Danube GeoHeCo Interim Transnational Conference highlights Innovations in Geothermal Energy

Photo by RDA Backa

As part of the Danube GeoHeCo project, the Interim Transnational Conference brought together experts, policymakers, and practitioners to explore the future of geothermal energy in the Danube Region. Hosted by Forschung Burgenland, the event was held on 12 June 2025 in Eisenstadt, Austria and featured a full-day programme focused on sustainable heating and cooling solutions, with particular emphasis on shallow and deep geothermal applications.

The conference served as a platform for knowledge exchange, showcasing best practices and innovative approaches that support the European Union’s climate and energy goals.

The event began with a welcome address and project overview by Danijela Vrtarić from the Medjimurje Energy Agency Ltd., Croatia. This was followed by keynote presentations from high-level EU and regional stakeholders: Matthieu Ballu, Policy Officer at the European Commission DG ENER, provided an overview of EU policies on the decarbonisation of heating and cooling (online); Annamária Nádor, Coordinator for EUSDR Priority Area 2, highlighted how the GeoHeCo project contributes to broader energy objectives in the Danube Region (online) and Johannes Schnitzer, FB (Austria) shared insights into current geothermal energy developments in Austria.

The conference continued with presentations on practical implementations of geothermal systems: Bettina Schumi from Vienna Energy GmbH presented on the development and integration of deep geothermal projects, particularly those linked to district heating networks and György Márton, from CROST Regional Development Nonprofit Ltd., Hungary, discussed the benefits and applications of waste heat utilisation.

Photo by RDA Backa

The afternoon session focused on technical solutions and local strategies developed through the Danube GeoHeCo project. Representatives from the Faculty of Mining, Geology and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, Croatia, introduced a decision support toolbox for the design and optimisation of shallow geothermal hybrid heating and cooling systems. A representative from LEA Pomurje, Slovenia emphasized the role of deployment desks in supporting community-led geothermal planning and representative of Forschung Burgenland presented a digital platform and virtual marketplace developed to promote the uptake of shallow geothermal hybrid systems.

In a dedicated session, MMst. DI Harald Erös, Chair of the Austrian Association of Refrigeration Technology (ÖGKT), addressed the challenges and evolving standards related to refrigerants in heat pump technology.

A key highlight of the event was the panel discussion on overcoming barriers to the utilisation of shallow geothermal energy. Experts from across the region explored practical solutions, regulatory frameworks, and the importance of cross-border collaboration in scaling up geothermal technologies.

The Danube GeoHeCo Interim Transnational Conference concluded with a reaffirmation of the project's goals to foster innovation, regional cooperation, and the transition to low-carbon, resilient energy systems.

The event successfully strengthened dialogue and strategy-building among countries in the Danube Region, marking a meaningful step forward in Europe’s geothermal journey.