Shallow Geothermal in the Danube Region: Serbia’s Priorities and Actions / Plitka geotermalna energija u Dunavskom regionu – Prioriteti i mere za Srbiju

Energija, ekonomija, ekologija, 1, XXVIII (2026) (38-45 str.)

AUTOR(I) / AUTHOR(S): Davor Končalović , Vladimir Vukašinović , Dušan Gordić , Mladen Josijević , Filip Nastić , Dubravka Živković

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.46793/EEE26-1.38K

SAŽETAK / ABSTRACT:

Heating and cooling account for nearly half of Europe’s final energy consumption, with approximately 75% still relying on fossil fuels. Decarbonisation of this sector is therefore critical for the continent’s climate neutrality. This paper analyses the obstacles and possible pathways to broader implementation of shallow geothermal energy (SGE) utilisation in Danube region and in Serbia. The research was conducted for the purpose of producing a document titled Transnational Action Plan (TAP), which was developed within the framework of the Interreg Danube GeoHeCo project. Two major types of shallow geothermal energy exploitation are examined: (i) closed-loop and open-loop ground source heat pump systems exploiting shallow geological layers up to 400 m depth, and (ii) wastewater heat recovery systems using high-temperature water source heat pumps without additional drilling. Based on national geological, regulatory, and market data, the paper identifies structural barriers and proposes targeted measures for accelerating the deployment of this source of energy. All proposed measures are divided into 5 priorities: Resources and regulations; Technology and design; Education and training; Financing and Awareness raising. 

KLJUČNE REČI / KEYWORDS:

Shallow geothermal energy, Renewable energy sources, Energy transition, Danube region

PROJEKAT / ACKNOWLEDGEMENT:

This work was supported by the Ministry of Science, Technological Development and Innovation of the Republic of Serbia (contract no. 451-03-34/2026-03/200107 from 05.02.2026.). The research was partially funded by the EU Interreg Danube Region Programme. The content of this paper is aligned with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals: Goal 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy, and Goal 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities.

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