Topusko Geothermal Project
Topusko, Croatia
Project overview
Topusko is one of the few locations in Croatia where geothermal energy fully supplies public buildings, spa facilities, and residential areas through a geothermal district heating network, making it a national reference case. The Topusko Geothermal Project aims to modernise and expand the use of local geothermal resources to develop a sustainable district heating system and strengthen the municipality’s role as a smart thermal city. Supported by EEA and Norway Grants, the project prepared technical documentation aligned with Croatia’s updated geothermal regulatory framework, enabling efficient utilisation of geothermal water resources. Despite its strong performance, significant unused potential remains, offering opportunities for network expansion, increased supply coverage, and future agricultural applications. Within the TopThermalCity project (2022–2024), technical documentation for system upgrades was prepared, including reconstruction and modernisation of the district heating network and renewal of geothermal wells to increase energy output.
Project Developing Company
TOP-TERME Ltd., Topusko, Croatia
Background of the project
Topusko has a long tradition of geothermal use dating back to the late 1970s and early 1980s, when production wells were drilled for heating, balneology, and spa services. Today, four geothermal wells supply the district heating system, with temperatures around 64°C and a total yield above 130 l/s, of which only about 20 l/s is currently utilised. The system serves around 220 users and 33 facilities through 5.2 km of network pipelines, supplied mainly from well TEB-4. Geothermal energy is used in cascade for heating, balneology, and recreational pools, maximising overall efficiency.
Impact and Strategic importance
- Modernise and expand its renewable energy infrastructure
- Improve the sustainability and competitiveness of its health tourism sector
- Enhance energy security and reduce greenhouse emissions
- Support local economic development, especially in health tourism and agriculture
