Exciting Study Trip to Bergen: Knowledge Exchange on Geothermal Energy with NORCE Partner
As part of the implementation of the HyPoKraT project, members of REGEA and AP Consulting had the privilege of participating in a study trip to Bergen from October 16 to 20, 2023. The goal of this trip was to establish collaboration with NORCE, the Norwegian Research Centre, and seize the opportunity to exchange experiences, knowledge, and examples of best practices in the field of geothermal energy and renewable energy sources.
NORCE, an institution with an impressive financial strength of 950 million euros and 750 experts from 50 different nationalities, represents a key player in advanced research and development throughout Norway. Their multidisciplinary approach, connecting the academic community, industry, and public authorities, and their focus on advancing knowledge, attest to the institute's ability to make a significant impact in the field of advanced research.
During the visit to NORCE, participants had the opportunity to attend a series of meetings where the project's HyPoKraT preliminary results were presented. Valuable knowledge and experiences regarding geothermal energy were exchanged, and key aspects of the project, such as data analysis, geological model development, and fluid simulation, were the subjects of intense discussions. Participants also had the chance to visit NORCE's laboratories, where they familiarized themselves with experimental understanding of underground flows and related bio-geo-chemical processes.
One of the significant moments of the trip was the visit to the laboratory testing the feasibility of geological CO2 storage, further enriching their understanding of the sustainability and potential of geothermal energy. Participants had the opportunity to discuss key issues and identify scenarios for simulation, contributing to the evaluation of different situations during the project's implementation.
At the end of the trip, an agreement on a joint dynamic was reached until the completion of the project, laying solid foundations for continuing collaboration between Croatian partners and NORCE. Nenad Miletić, Saša Bardak, Alen Požgaj, Suzana Barić, Karlo Marciuš, and Željka Sladović, representatives of REGEA and AP Consulting, left a strong and inspiring impression during the visit with their exceptional dedication and expertise.
This study trip not only provided an opportunity for knowledge exchange but also for strengthening ties between partners, creating sustainable solutions, and encouraging innovation in the field of geothermal energy. Collaboration between Croatian and Norwegian experts pave the way for a better future where geothermal energy will be a key resource for sustainable development.
