Geothermal District Heating Systems in Slovakia – Current Status and Plans

Abstract

Slovakia belongs among European countries with above-average geothermal conditions. Most of the geothermal reservoirs in the country provide geothermal water with temperature lower than 100°C which insufficient for efficient power generation but optimal for district heating purposes. Currently, there are three operating district heating systems in the country, one of them in operation for more than 18 years and two of them built within last four years. Geothermal energy represents a base load heat source and natural gas boilers are used as a peak and backup source. Experiences from these systems declares significant geothermal heat production and natural gas savings while price of the heat is lower and more stable than from conventional boiler plants. Positive environmental impact in form of decreased greenhouse gasses emission is encountered as well. Moreover, two new geothermal district heating systems are in preparation phase and are to be built soon. The aim of this paper is to present overview of the current state, technical solutions, operational experiences and future plans of geothermal district heating system in Slovakia.