Geothermal Heating System Completed in Szeged's New District
On this chilly Friday, March 1, 2024, with temperatures hovering around 13°C, a significant milestone in sustainable infrastructure development has been achieved in Szeged, Hungary. The completion of the geothermal heating system in the Szilléri district marks a leap towards cleaner energy utilization and reduced environmental footprint.
Initiated with a budget of 2.352 billion Hungarian forints, this project, realized with European Union support, underscores the commitment of both local and international stakeholders towards sustainable energy solutions. The endeavor was spearheaded by Geo Hőterm Kft., which secured 1.108 billion forints in non-repayable EU funds for the project.
The implementation involved drilling a 2000-meter-deep production thermal well near the Zápor-tó lake on Pentelei sor. Within the water pump house, an 8.4 MW capacity plate heat exchanger was installed, alongside a water treatment and chemical dosing system essential for reinjection. Additionally, two shallower reinjection wells complement the geothermal loop. Interconnection with the existing district heating network, particularly with the Felsőváros I heating plant, further enhances the efficiency and reach of the system.
One of the most compelling aspects of this initiative is its environmental impact. Preliminary calculations suggest an annual displacement of over 2.2 million cubic meters of natural gas, substituted by 69,229 GJ of geothermal energy. Moreover, factoring in additional electricity savings, the project is estimated to mitigate approximately 4482.44 tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually, thereby contributing significantly to Szeged's greenhouse gas reduction goals.
Over the years, Szeged has emerged as a frontrunner in embracing geothermal energy for residential heating, trailing only Reykjavik in Europe's geothermal district heating capacity. The existing district heating system serves 27,251 households and 469 institutions across 23 heating zones. By halving the city's natural gas consumption and carbon dioxide emissions associated with heating, this project represents a pivotal step towards a greener, more sustainable future for Szeged.
Read this Geothermal Heat Direct Use Applicationto see how Geothermal heat is a gem
As global efforts intensify to combat climate change, Szeged's successful adoption of geothermal energy serves as a beacon of hope and a model for other municipalities striving towards carbon neutrality and environmental stewardship. With continued innovation and collaboration, the journey towards a cleaner, greener planet becomes ever more attainable.
Source: Alphaxioms
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