The exploratory well Virovitica GT-1 (VirGT-1) is investigating the possibilities of utilizing a local renewable energy source.
Exploration work has started in Virovitica to assess the geothermal potential of the VirGT-1 well. This is part of a project evaluating the use of geothermal energy for energy purposes. The research is being conducted by the Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency (AZU) in the geothermal water exploration area “Virovitica 2,” which covers parts of the City of Virovitica and the Municipality of Lukač.
“With this initiative, Virovitica is showing a forward-thinking approach to long-term development and the pursuit of sustainable solutions for the city’s future. Exploring geothermal potential is important because it allows us to assess our available options based on expert, verified data,” said Ivica Kirin,
Mayor of Virovitica.
The VirGT-1 exploratory geothermal well is planned to reach a depth of approximately 1,300 meters. The research targets geological structures that may contain geothermal water deposits. The exploration area is located in the central part of the Drava Depression, a region considered geologically promising for this type of energy research.
“Geothermal energy is one of the few renewable sources that is stable, locally available, and independent of weather or market conditions. The goal of the exploration work in Virovitica is to determine whether there is potential that could be integrated into the future energy system , primarily for heating, but also for other locally applicable uses. We are conducting the research in Virovitica with the same professional and technical standards that have led to positive results in previous explorations in four other Croatian cities,” said Marijan Krpan, President of the Management Board of the Croatian Hydrocarbon Agency.
In Croatia, geothermal energy is recognized as one of the key renewable sources with the potential to enhance energy security and reduce reliance on fossil fuels , especially in urban district heating systems in the Pannonian region of the country. The Virovitica project is part of a broader series of activities exploring geothermal potential for district heating purposes.
In addition, the Hydrocarbon Agency is carrying out a separate project with already confirmed positive results in Osijek, Velika Gorica, and Vinkovci. Exploration activities in Zaprešić are nearing completion, with testing results expected in the coming weeks.
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