November the 4th, 2025 – Huge geothermal potential has been discovered in Vinkovci, furthering Croatia’s aim to become as energetically independent as possible.
As Poslovni Dnevnik writes, the results of the exploration at the Vinkovci GT-1 well have confirmed significant geothermal potential in the area. Vinkovci has thus become the third location with positive results after Velika Gorica and Osijek, where reservoir temperatures of more than 100 °C were previously confirmed. This continues the successful series of exploration activities of the Hydrocarbons Agency as part of the project “Preparation and exploration of geothermal potential in the context of centralised heating”. The project is aimed at developing the use of locally available and renewable energy for the needs of district heating, agriculture and wider economic development.
“Following on from Osijek and Velika Gorica, the positive findings of the geothermal exploration in Vinkovci are concrete proof that Croatia has significant geothermal potential and the knowledge to use it. Through a systematic approach to both research and investments, Hydrocarbons Agency is bringing great results and creating the foundations for further renewable energy projects. Geothermal energy isn’t merely a stable and clean source, it’s also a strategic resource that can contribute to the security of energy supply across Croatia. The results also show that Croatian experts can independently and efficiently implement complex energy projects”, explained Marijan Krpan, President of the Management Board of the Hydrocarbons Agency.
The project and research part are currently being carried out by the Hydrocarbon Agency, and the works are being carried out by Crosco – naftni servisi d.o.o., a member of the INA Group. The expert team measured a maximum temperature of 131 °C at the Vinkovci GT-1 well at a depth of 2,700 metres, which indicates the possibility of commercial application of geothermal energy in the heating system.
“This research in Vinkovci has been carried out according to the highest technical standards and the planned dynamics of the project. Upon completion of the research at the remaining location in Zaprešić, the Hydrocarbon Agency plans to drill additional wells at locations with confirmed potential. This will establish the necessary production and injection pairs for the safe and long-term use of Croatian geothermal energy,” said Martina Tuschl, Director of the Geothermal Energy Sector of the Hydrocarbons Agency.
The confirmed findings of huge geothermal potential are enormously important for Vinkovci because they open up the possibility of applying geothermal energy in heating systems. It will also become possible to develop new economic activities related to the use of thermal energy. As such, this promising geothermal potential could be used for the faster development of agriculture in the entire Jarmine municipality area, where the exploration well is located.
“This is a historic moment for Vinkovci because research has confirmed that Vinkovci and the entire region have geothermal potential as the energy of the future, bringing us the path to energy independence and sustainability. We’re immediately starting to prepare the necessary studies and plans to ensure more affordable heating and create the foundations of a green transition and long-term benefits for the economy and agriculture alike,” said Vinkovci Mayor Josip Romić.
The Hydrocarbons Agency is otherwise implementing this huge project with funding from the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (NRRP), within which 50.8 million euros have been provided for research at four locations: Velika Gorica, Osijek, Vinkovci and Zaprešić. The commendable project aims to increase energy independence and the security of a Croatian supply, all while working hard to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and strengthening the sustainable development of cities across the country.
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