Unlocking the Potential of Shallow Geothermal Energy in the Danube Region: Best Practice from Međimurje, Croatia

How can regions turn the potential of shallow geothermal energy into practical solutions for sustainable heating and cooling?

A new best practice article published by FEDARENE highlights the achievements of the Danube GeoHeCo project in Međimurje Region, Croatia, demonstrating how local expertise, digital tools and targeted investments can support the wider use of shallow geothermal energy. The experience from Međimurje showcases several important steps towards unlocking this renewable energy source.

Strengthening local knowledge and capacities. Through training sessions, stakeholder consultations and knowledge exchange activities, the project has contributed to strengthening local expertise and raising awareness of shallow geothermal energy among relevant stakeholders.

Supporting informed decision-making. Digital decision-support tools and a web-based platform developed within the project provide valuable support to public authorities, investors and energy planners in assessing geothermal potential and identifying suitable heating and cooling solutions.

Demonstrating practical applications. One of the most tangible results is the installation of a groundwater heat pump at the Branch School in Pušćine, Croatia. The system has been successfully integrated into the existing heating infrastructure, providing an efficient hybrid solution and demonstrating the practical application of shallow geothermal energy in public buildings.

Cooperation for a greener Danube Region

Bringing together partners and expertise from eight Danube Region countries, Danube GeoHeCo demonstrated the importance of transnational cooperation in developing innovative and transferable solutions for renewable heating and cooling.

The experience from Međimurje confirmed that successfully unlocking shallow geothermal potential requires more than technology. It also depends on knowledge, strategic planning, stakeholder engagement and cooperation between different sectors and regions.

Through knowledge exchange, the development of practical tools and the implementation of real-life solutions, Danube GeoHeCo contributed to advancing sustainable, energy-efficient and climate-friendly heating and cooling across the Danube Region. The project's results and best practices provide valuable insights and a foundation for further uptake of shallow geothermal energy beyond the project lifetime.

Read the full best practice article published by FEDARENE:

Unlocking shallow geothermal heating and cooling potential in Međimurje Region