Old Oil Wells Can Also Serve as Geothermal Energy Utilization

Date: 13.11.2025
By: TRANSGEO

On September 24, 2025, the University of Zagreb’s Faculty of Mining, Geology and Petroleum Engineering organized a stakeholder workshop as part of three EU-funded projects, including TRANSGEO. Dr. Luka Perković presented a feasibility study for the abandoned Savica-1 well, exploring its potential as a pilot site for Borehole Thermal Energy Storage (BTES). He discussed the project’s goals—reducing CO₂ emissions, improving energy independence, and leveraging local expertise—while comparing open- and closed-loop geothermal systems.

Dr. Perković detailed the modeling methodology using the Python/FEFLOW interface, presenting results from four system configurations. Findings showed trade-offs between borehole length, energy efficiency, and waste heat use, with longer boreholes offering higher outlet temperatures suitable for district heating. The session concluded with an active discussion among city and government representatives on technical and socio-economic aspects of geothermal implementation. The workshop successfully increased stakeholder awareness of TRANSGEO’s objectives and outcomes.

Croatian national energy portal: https://www.energetika-net.com/obnovljivi-izvori/stare-naftne-busotine-mogu-posluziti-i-za-geotermalnu-energiju