Integrating geothermal energy in Hungary: A case study on sustainable urban heating and emissions mitigation through the district heating infrastructure

Abstract

Hungary boasts exceptional geothermal capabilities, with an Earth's crust thermal gradient nearly double the global average. However, the current utilization of these resources is often one-sided and lacks careful consideration. This comprehensive study offers updated insights into Hungary's geothermal potential and its current energy utilization. By presenting a practical example and employing scenario-based analyses, this study demonstrates how basic calculations can guide investment decisions in geothermal infrastructure. The aim is to address the prevailing issue of cities and towns prioritizing fossil fuel-based energy sources, thereby overshadowing renewable energy alternatives, despite advancing technology. Notably, in the case of Székesfehérvár, it was determined that annual natural gas consumption could be reduced by an impressive 40–50%, leading to a substantial reduction of 5,000–9,200 tons of CO2 emissions, depending on the specific scenarios examined.