Utilization of Geothermal Sources in the Municipality of Mali Bukovec Could Lead to Energy Independence for Varaždin County

The Municipality of Mali Bukovec welcomes the decision of the Varaždin County Assembly to establish the company Bukotermal Ltd., as this step lays the foundation for potential energy independence of municipalities and towns in the eastern part of the county, as well as for further economic development in the region, particularly in floriculture and agriculture.

"As it is well known, the Municipality of Mali Bukovec is situated on a large geothermal field that was explored back in the 1970s and 1980s. Unfortunately, this vast potential has remained untapped to this day. As highlighted during the Assembly meeting, the task of the newly established company, Bukotermal, is to obtain concession permits, prepare projects and necessary studies for exploitation, manage the sources, and seek capital for the commercial utilization of the available geothermal energy," explained Darko Marković, Mayor of the Municipality of Mali Bukovec. He reiterated that the Municipality had initiated this effort long ago.

"We are pleased that the current county government has recognized the region's energy potential and the initiative started by the Municipality of Mali Bukovec, resulting in the establishment of the company. It is quite possible that the realization of this project could pave the way for energy independence for Varaždin County, as seen in the Austrian region of Burgenland, a model already discussed by Prefect Čačić during the Assembly," Marković continued. He emphasized that utilizing geothermal sources could further advance floriculture in the region, positioning it as the leading area for flower cultivation in Croatia.

According to Prefect Radimir Čačić, in addition to utilizing geothermal sources to heat agricultural production facilities, the energy potential could also be exploited for electricity production, recreational tourism development, and similar activities. In any case, this project would further position Varaždin County as a leader in (intensive) agricultural production, a goal the current county administration intends to achieve.

The newly established company Bukotermal Ltd. is 85% owned by Varaždin County, with the remaining 15% owned by the Municipality of Mali Bukovec. This company will initiate projects, conduct feasibility studies, and ultimately decide on investment opportunities in the production of thermal and/or electrical energy.