Presentations Highlight Key Renewable Energy Opportunities
- The meeting featured three expert presentations that offered an in-depth look at the technical, environmental, and governance aspects of DHS decarbonisation:
- Geological Survey of Slovenia presented opportunities for integrating geothermal energy into the district heating system, highlighting its long-term potential and environmental benefits.
- Envirodual shared findings from research on the biomass potential in the Savinja, Koroška, and Podravje regions, outlining how locally available biomass resources could support the energy transition.
- The Utility Company of Velenje introduced the Action Plan for the Transformation of the DHS in the Šaleška Valley, detailing feasible investment measures and key steps toward creating a sustainable, renewable-based heating system.
Together, these contributions provided stakeholders with a comprehensive overview of the renewable energy options and strategic pathways for decarbonising the local DHS.
Wide Stakeholder Participation Strengthens Collaboration
The event gathered a diverse group of participants, including representatives from local government, regional and sectoral agencies, infrastructure and public service providers, and members of the general public. The Municipality of Velenje played a central role in organizing the event, ensuring alignment between local development goals, the HEAT35 project objectives, and national climate targets.
The District Heating Section of the Energy Chamber of Slovenia was also informed about the project’s progress, helping reinforce cooperation with professionals engaged in DHS operations and renewable energy technologies.
As the DHS operator, the Utility Company of Velenje provided essential technical expertise, contributing significantly to the identification of viable investment measures for the Local Action Plan.
Visual materials and clear presentations made the project’s goals accessible to the wider public, strengthening awareness and support for the transition to renewable energy sources.
Long-Term Impact on Regional Decarbonisation Efforts
The outcomes of the meeting are expected to have lasting positive effects. The event fostered stronger collaboration among key stakeholders, improved coordination between the local and regional levels, and contributed to a more clearly defined roadmap for the decarbonisation of the DHS in the Šaleška Valley.
Additionally, enhanced communication with the public increased understanding and acceptance of the HEAT35 project, reinforcing ongoing efforts to build a sustainable, climate-neutral heating system for the region.