Regional Educational Workshop and Study Visit Mark the Conclusion of the Danube GeoHeCo Project Activities in Croatia

As part of the project Danube GeoHeCo – Fostering the Implementation of Shallow Geothermal Hybrid Heating and Cooling Systems in the Danube Region, Medjimurje Energy Agency Ltd. and Faculty of Mining, Geology and Petroleum Engineering, University of Zagreb, organised a regional educational workshop on 9 June 2026 in Čakovec, aimed at knowledge transfer and networking among energy sector stakeholders, with a particular focus on the utilisation of shallow geothermal energy.

The workshop was held at the premises of the Medjimurje Technology and Innovation Centre Ltd. and brought together representatives of the public sector, educational and research institutions, energy experts, and other interested stakeholders to exchange experiences and strengthen cooperation in the application of shallow geothermal technologies.

The event was opened by representatives of the Medjimurje Energy Agency Ltd., who presented the objectives and key achievements of the Danube GeoHeCo project. The project aims to increase the use of shallow geothermal energy across the Danube Region by promoting the integration of geothermal heat pumps into existing heating and cooling systems, enhancing professional capacities, and facilitating knowledge transfer among project partners and market stakeholders. It is funded by the European Union through the Interreg Danube Region Programme 2021. – 2027.

The central part of the programme featured expert presentations on geothermal energy and hybrid heating and cooling systems, covering technological solutions, innovations, and practical application opportunities. Particular emphasis was placed on examples of good practice from Croatia, including the planned modernisation of the heating system at Donji Kraljevec Primary School through the installation of a water-to-water geothermal heat pump, as well as on the opportunities offered by European projects supporting the development and implementation of geothermal technologies.

Following the presentations, participants had the opportunity to network and exchange experiences. The event concluded with a study visit to the Pušćine Branch School, where participants toured the newly installed geothermal heat pump implemented as part of the Danube GeoHeCo pilot investment in Croatia. The visit provided first-hand insight into the project's implementation and demonstrated the practical benefits of applying shallow geothermal systems in public buildings.

The regional workshop also marked the project's final event in Croatia, providing an opportunity to present the achieved results, exchange experiences among project partners and stakeholders, and discuss future prospects for the further development and application of shallow geothermal technologies. The project's outcomes and the partnerships established through its implementation provide a valuable foundation for future initiatives and investments that will contribute to a sustainable energy transition and increased use of renewable energy sources throughout the Danube Region.