Two key achievements in the HyPoKraT Project in the first half of 2023
The HyPoKraT Project aims to produce documentation that will enable future research and exploitation of renewable geothermal energy sources in the municipality of Krapinske Toplice. This effort will result in increased energy efficiency, reduced CO2 emissions, and mitigation of the impacts of climate change. Planned activities include the analysis of seismic profiles, geochemical and magnetotelluric measurements, and the creation of a 3D model of the geothermal reservoir. Additionally, an analysis of the geothermal energy potential in the municipality will be conducted, with a focus on refurbishing the KRT-1 well and developing the use of geothermal energy for heating purposes. The project will also organize educational activities, particularly targeting young individuals, to encourage education in the field of sustainable development and renewable energy sources. Through these activities, the project will contribute to strengthening the capacity for managing and promoting renewable energy sources in the local community.
In collaboration with consultants, PP1 AP Consulting produced project documentation in May. Two documents were created:
IConceptual Oil and Mining Project for Hydro-Dynamic Testing of Geothermal Well KRT-1:
This conceptual project encompasses terrestrial geodetic measurements of the drilling workspace for the purposes of overhauling and testing the KRT-1 well, as well as the construction of a lagoon for well testing. The document included a detailed geological analysis of the exploration area of the geothermal water, analysis of input data, including geological and drilling information from surrounding wells.
Additionally, a technological-technical analysis was conducted, covering the determination of spatial dimensions and drilling workspace for accommodating the overhaul facility. The construction of the existing KRT-1 well, specifications of installed protective casing columns, and previous overhaul and testing works were analyzed. Conceptual preparation for future overhaul works for the revitalization of the existing KRT-1 well was also prepared.
Planned overhaul works include construction works on arranging the workspace, installation of the overhaul facility, wellhead securing, well killing, eruptive device dismantling, preventer assembly installation, production string extraction, and electro-cardiotachometric measurements for determining the petrophysical parameters of the deposit. Production testing of the well was also conducted, along with wellhead preparation and temporary abandonment of the KRT-1 well after testing.
Conceptual Project for the Utilization of Geothermal Energy for Heating Needs of Industrial, Public, and Medical-Tourist Buildings and Facilities in the Municipality of Krapinske Toplice:
This conceptual solution considers the possibility of using geothermal water for heating the following facilities: Maslačak Kindergarten, Holy Trinity Church, Special Hospital for Medical Rehabilitation Krapinske Toplice, Elementary School Krapinske Toplice, and the Municipality Building of Krapinske Toplice.
The analysis of geothermal energy for use in the observed facilities is crucial, with a key concern being the available quantity of geothermal water.
The Special Hospital requires 71% of the well's capacity, but the maximum allowable quantity of thermal water has not yet been determined. Therefore, there is a possibility that geothermal energy may not be able to meet all heating needs of the hospital.
The thermal water needs of different facilities are as follows:
1. Maslačak Kindergarten: 2.13 l/s
2. Holy Trinity Church: 2.66 l/s
3. Special Hospital: 21.30 l/s
4. Elementary School: 7.72 l/s
5. Municipality Building: 0.74 l/s
In further stages of the project, it will be necessary to select the facilities that will use geothermal energy, considering the available quantity of thermal water. It will also be necessary to obtain concession rights for the use of the KRT-1 geothermal source. Depending on the concession quantities obtained, consumers will need to be selected and their systems sized.
The district heating pipeline route is planned for private and public buildings, and there are plans for the adaptation of the heating system in the cultural heritage - the Church. Approvals for construction will be required from the competent authorities and owners for further stages of the project.
By utilizing geothermal production from the KRT-1 well in Krapinske Toplice, an annual savings of €3,339,246.25 is expected for heating needs (during the 240-day heating season). Additionally, the geothermal potential can be used for agrothermal purposes in heating 14 greenhouses with a total area of 14,000 m2.
By using geothermal energy for heating and cooling in the municipality of Krapinske Toplice, a significant reduction in maintenance costs of buildings and direct users is expected. This environmentally friendly and energy-efficient alternative to conventional gas contributes to energy efficiency, reduction of CO2 emissions, and optimal use of natural resources. The development of the Conceptual Project represents a crucial step in this direction, providing local entrepreneurs and tourist facilities with the opportunity to harness the benefits of this sustainable energy. Planned expansion of geothermal water capacity will further enhance heating possibilities. This step represents a significant stride towards a sustainable energy future for the Municipality of Krapinske Toplice.
