Harnessing geothermal energy in Hungary

Abstract

This paper provides a summary of the current status of geothermal energy utilisation in Hungary, with a brief reference to geothermal potential. Approximately 1,000 thermal wells are in operation, producing from two principal aquifers: carbonate aquifers (predominantly Mesozoic) and Upper Miocene siliciclastic aquifers. The utilisation of geothermal energy in Hungary commenced with balneological exploitation, with documented evidence dating back to the Roman era. Of particular note is the city of Budapest, which has the distinction of being home to 16 thermal spas, a fact that has led to its designation as the spa capital of Europe. In the Hungarian portion of the Pannonian Superbasin, 26 municipalities have implemented geothermal district heating systems. Furthermore, geothermal energy plays a significant role in the agricultural sector, with approximately 300 thermal wells currently in operation. Nevertheless, the generation of geothermal electricity is still in its infancy, with only one operational geothermal power plant. However, based on the exploration permits submitted, there are significant prospects for further development. The same is true for ground source heat pumps, where there is considerable potential for growth, particularly in comparison to our neighbouring country's utilisation. Recent research directions are promising, ranging from the use of geothermal energy from abandoned hydrocarbon wells as deep borehole heat exchangers, to the potential for extracting critical materials from thermal water, to exploring the possibility of underground heat storage. The favourable geothermal conditions in Hungary offer the potential to achieve up to 15-20 times the current production of 6.5 PJ, assuming the application of existing technologies. This presents a significant opportunity for the transition to a more sustainable energy source, particularly in the context of heating.