Geothermal development opportunities in Oradea

Abstract

Located in an area of sedimentary basins with low-enthalpy geothermal resources, Oradea city in Romania has a tradition of geothermal research and exploitation. Considering the objectives of the local public administration to develop further the utilization of geothermal resources, the report presents potential geothermal development opportunities in the area. The necessity of a more efficient use of the existing resources and infrastructure is underlined, plus the need for a strategic orientation towards the increase in geothermal exploitation opportunities. Optimization with sustainability as a key goal in the utilization of the geothermal resource in Oradea is of importance, as well as improving air quality by reducing burning of fossil fuels, lowering the heating cost for the population and improving energy safety by increasing usage of a local energy source. This can help Romania to fulfil the 20-20-20 goal of the EU, which can improve the local development of the area. The report presents a proposal of a geothermal road map to 2030, with 3 phases of development at metropolitan level