Geothermal energy in Serbia – Current state, utilization and perspectives

• Published in: Renewable & sustainable energy reviews Vol. 162; p. 112442
• Main Authors: Milanović Pešić, Ana, Brankov, Jovana, Denda, Stefan, Bjeljac, Željko, Micić, Jasna
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Elsevier Ltd 01.07.2022
• Subjects: Bogatić Municipality; Geothermal energy; Gornja Trepča Spa; Serbia; Utilization; Vranjska Banja Spa; Temperature; Gigawatt thermal-hour; Metre; Millions of tonnes of oil equivalent; MilliWatt per square metre; Depth; Kilowatt; Gigawatt thermal; Energy; Gigawatt; Terawatt-hour; Units Degree Celsius; Polyvinyl chloride; Serbia; Square metre; Gamma per litre; Photovoltaics; Megawatt thermal; Source temperature; Geothermal energy; Metres above sea level; Terajoule; Bogatić Municipality; Volumetric yield; Renewable energy sources; Utilization; Gornja Trepča Spa; Change in temperature; Thermal power; Vranjska Banja Spa; European Union; Litre per second; Square kilometre; Millibecquerel per litre; Megawatt
• ISSN: 1364-0321; 1879-0690
• DOI: 10.1016/j.rser.2022.112442

In the 21st century, many countries are starting to use geothermal energy (GTE) as a new energy source. Serbia also has the potential to use it as a renewable energy source. The complex geological structure of its terrain has given rise to a large number of thermomineral springs and geothermal wells. Based on the existing measurements, the geothermal heat flow density in Serbia ranges from 80 to 120 mW/m2, which is above Europe's average (60 mW/m2). Currently, there are 66 projects in Serbia that directly use geothermal energy. There are an estimated 1005 geothermal heat pump units. Their power varies between 10 kW and 40 kW and they operate for 2860 full load hours per year. This paper deals with the development, current state and perspectives of geothermal energy utilization for heating in Serbia. To illustrate the current state of geothermal energy utilization in Serbia, spa settlements Vranjska Banja and Gornja Trepča, as well as the Bogatić Municipality have been singled out as examples of good practice. The presented analysis includes determining the available amount of geothermal energy and its utilization for district heating or heating of selected public facilities. The concept and methodology of the presented research are based on data collection through literature review, surveys and field research. The analysis confirms the cost-effectiveness of using geothermal energy and reveals numerous ecological advantages over other energy sources. However, it was concluded that аlthough there is potential, geothermal sources, as a renewable energy source, are used negligibly in Serbia. •An overview of the development of geothermal resources and their use for heat.•An analysis of the several examples of good practice in the use of GTE in Serbia.•A calculation of the thermal power and energy of selected wells.•Compared benefits of using GTE as a replacement for the traditional types of fuel.•Findings inform about perspectives for the future use of GTE.