Projects

1. Preparation and Geological Survey of the Area

completed phase

The first step is the preparation of the geological task project and the designation of the exploration area. In this phase, it is determined what will be investigated, what the project goal is, what work will need to be carried out and to what extent it will be implemented.

This phase includes the evaluation of existing geological data. We also conducted new seismic measurements, that results were processed and interpreted in cooperation with local and foreign experts. The survey was followed by a comprehensive evaluation of geological data and territorial parameters, including the identification of prospective areas.

Part of the preparation is also an environmental impact assessment, if required by the nature or depth of the planned well. Thus, technical, environmental and administrative preparation takes place before the actual drilling, so that subsequent work can be carried out professionally and in accordance with regulations.

For projects in the districts of Žiar nad Hronom and Prešov, we have successfully completed this phase

3. Well Testing and Evaluation

After drilling, short-term or hydrodynamic tests follow, which show how the well behaves under operationsand what are its parameters. What is primarily verified is the volume and temperature of geothermal water, pressure in the reservoir, chemical composition of the water, the stability of parameters, and whether the well can be used safely over the long term.

The results of these tests are compiled into a final report. This report is an important basis for further decision-making, as it will show whether the anticipated parameters and expectation have been met and whether it makes sense to proceed to the next development phase.

4. Decision on Further Use

If the results confirm its potential, the well is secured so that it can serve as a source of geothermal water for further energy use after technical completion.

It is precisely at this point that the project moves from the exploration phase to the implementation phase. Simply put, only a successful exploration and well will show whether the location can become a real energy source for a future power plant or thermal application.

If it turns out that the well is not suitable for further use, it must be safely decommissioned.

5. Implementation Phase

In the case of a positive evaluation of the first exploration well and in the case of a decision on further development of the area, the so called “production drilling” starts, the drilling of the additional well or wells follows. Each of the wells will, in relation to their results, be classified as either a production or reinjection well. In this way, a pair of wells is created that together form a so-called doublet. 

The purpose of the production well is to exploit geothermal water from the geothermal reservoir. The purpose of the reinjection well, in turn, is to inject the geothermal water back into the geothermal reservoir after its thermal potential has been extracted. This creates a closed cycle that allows the sustainable use of water, which is also why we speak of a renewable energy source. 

Subsequently, based on the results of pumping tests and according to the project plan, additional geothermal wells are drilled, thereby increasing the energy potential of the geothermal center.

6. Converting the Well into an Energy Source

After the implementation of successful wells, the permitting of their further utilization under the Water Act and Building Act follows. At this stage, it is no longer just about exploration, but about preparation for long-term operation – i.e., the extraction of geothermal water, its further processing, and depending on the type of project, also reinjection or other methods of water management.

For geothermal energy to be used, for example, in electricity production, a successful well alone is not enough. The technical equipment of the well, permitting processes, subsequent technological equipment, and the entire energy system that will enable the conversion of heat from underground into usable energy are all necessary. 

After completion of the wells, a permit for temporary extraction and discharge of geothermal water follows. A hydrodynamic test is then conducted, which should confirm the assumed parameters of the groundwater. This is followed by the preparation of a final report and the calculation of water quantities, which must be performed by a certified person. The last step in this phase is the final permit for permanent extraction and discharge of geothermal water, an additional permit for the well, and the construction and well acceptation approval.

7. Construction of the Geothermal Center

In addition to the deep wells, the construction of surface facilities is essential, where geothermal energy will be converted into electricity and/or heat. Heat transport to district heating systems will be ensured by a heat pipeline, and connection to the distribution grid by electric power lines. All surface structures also require obtaining the necessary permits (site approval, building permit) and acceptation approvals.

8. Commissioning

The operation of the geothermal plant is possible practically continuously thanks to its independence from weather, daytime or fuel. An important part of the operation is maintenance, which takes only a minimum of time. The use of geothermal energy also brings an ongoing obligation to record the volume of extracted water. In the operational phase, the supply of ecological heat and electricity to tens of thousands of households in the surrounding area is planned.