Vukovar’s district heating system, operated by Tehnostan d.o.o., is largely dependent on fossil fuels, especially natural gas. The network spans 5 km and serves around 2,200 households and 25 businesses. Key challenges include limited integration of renewable energy, high sensitivity to fuel price fluctuations, and infrastructure that requires modernization. Although some progress has been made, such as installing solar thermal and PV systems, major upgrades are still needed to meet EU decarbonization goals.
As a beginner pilot under the HEAT 35 project, the action focuses on mapping energy demand and evaluating local renewable sources such as solar, geothermal, and ambient heat, conducting feasibility studies and defining decarbonisation scenarios, developing sustainable business and funding models, engaging local stakeholders including residents, businesses, and authorities, and designing phased upgrades for system modernization. The pilot aims to align the system with EU regulations, with a target of achieving 50% renewable or waste heat integration by 2035.
The transformation will bring long-term benefits to Vukovar by reducing emissions and energy losses, increasing efficiency with modern, smart technologies, lowering heating costs for residents, building a replicable model for other small and medium-sized cities in Central Europe, and strengthening community trust through transparency and involvement. By turning planning into action, Vukovar’s pilot is a step toward a cleaner, fairer, and more resilient energy future.