Geothermal energy, recognized as one of the most promising sources of renewable energy, is increasingly gaining importance in global energy transition strategies. Stable and reliable, it does not depend on weather conditions and holds significant potential for heating urban areas, especially in regions with favorable geological characteristics like Belgrade.
In collaboration with the Faculty of Mining and Geology at the University of Belgrade, Belgrade Heating Utility (JKP Beogradske elektrane) has started researching geothermal resources at several locations throughout the capital. Preliminary results indicate considerable potential, with Borča, the Danube and Batajnica identified as the most promising areas.
First step taken in Batajnica
The first concrete step has already been taken in Batajnica, where the Serbian government has made a decision to declare the expropriation of properties for the construction of facilities for producing heat energy from geothermal sources. The plan also includes forming a single construction plot for the reconstruction of the existing heating plant in Batajnica. The expropriation will be carried out by the City of Belgrade for the needs of JKP Beogradske elektrane.
This location is especially significant as, according to a study by the Faculty of Mining and Geology, geothermal energy in Batajnica could replace up to 90% of the annual fossil fuel usage at the heating plant. The scientific analysis also confirms the geothermal potential ranging from 5 to 20 megawatts per system.
First drilling in Batajnica by the end of the year
According to JKP Beogradske elektrane, the plan is to carry out exploratory drilling in Batajnica within this year. The drilling will play a key role in confirming the geothermal capacity parameters and determining the next steps. The public procurement plan for 2025 includes selecting a contractor for the drilling, and if the procedure goes smoothly, work could begin by the end of the year.
Recognizing the limited and rapidly depleting global fossil fuel reserves, JKP Beogradske elektrane is accelerating the use of renewable energy sources. One of the most important steps in this direction, they say, is researching geothermal resources at district heating plants in cooperation with the Faculty of Mining and Geology at the University of Belgrade.
Key step in reducing fossil fuel use
The exploratory drilling will be crucial in confirming the findings of the scientific study, which suggests the significant potential to reduce fossil fuel consumption at the Batajnica heating plant. Once the geothermal resource testing is complete, a decision will be made about the next phases of integrating geothermal energy into the existing plant.
The procurement plan for 2025 also includes the public tender for selecting a contractor to build the exploratory well in the Batajnica complex. The start of the work depends on the pace of the procedures and compliance with the Public Procurement Law, but it is expected that the contractor will be chosen, and the work will begin later this year.
No new heating plant in Batajnica
The project does not include the construction of a new heating plant in Batajnica but rather the reconstruction of the existing facility. This process will involve constructing auxiliary buildings and modernizing equipment for geothermal energy exploitation.
While it is currently difficult to estimate the investment needed for the next phases, financial parameters will be defined in the Feasibility Study, which will be prepared after the geothermal resource testing is completed.
Plans for Borča and the Danube
In addition to the Batajnica complex, JKP Beogradske elektrane plans similar research activities at other promising locations, including Borča and the Danube. Documentation for the public procurement procedure is already being collected.
“This research represents a significant step toward a more sustainable energy future for Belgrade, with the potential to reduce the use of fossil fuels and develop geothermal infrastructure. This project will contribute to the broader vision of the city’s energy independence, alongside the construction of the Obrenovac–New Belgrade district heating pipeline and the use of heat energy from the Vinča waste incineration plant,” says JKP Beogradske elektrane.
