Preparatory work has begun for the drilling of the Banska PGP-7 production well in Podhale, Poland, marking the fourth well for Geotermia Podhalanska’s geothermal heating project. The well, targeting a depth exceeding 4,000 meters, will enhance the capacity of the heating plant serving Zakopane, a key town in the region.

Geothermal well at Zakopane, Poland

The drilling site is being readied for rig mobilization, with drilling scheduled to commence in June 2025 and conclude by September 2025. A one-month testing phase will follow to ensure operational efficiency. The new well is projected to increase the plant’s capacity by nearly 15 MWt, boosting the current 80 MWt output to meet growing energy demands.

Approval for the Banska PGP-7 well was granted in 2023, with initial preparations starting before October of that year. However, drilling was delayed due to operations on a nearby well, which reached a depth of approximately 6,100 meters. The delay ensured safe and coordinated development of the geothermal infrastructure.

A Geotermia Podhalanska representative stated: “The new well is expected to add almost 15 MWt to the current approximately 80 MWt capacity of the heating project that supplies Zakopane.” This expansion underscores the company’s commitment to sustainable energy solutions for the region.

Construction of supporting infrastructure, including heat exchangers and distribution pipelines, is already underway. Work on fan coolers is set to begin soon, further enhancing the system’s efficiency. These upgrades are designed to optimize heat distribution and ensure reliable service for Zakopane’s residents and businesses.

The project, with an estimated investment of PLN 88 million (approximately USD 23.4 million), has secured significant funding from the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management, contributing over PLN 52 million (approximately USD 11.9 million). This financial support highlights the importance of geothermal energy in Poland’s renewable energy strategy.

Located in Podhale, the geothermal heating plant plays a vital role in providing clean, sustainable heat to Zakopane. The addition of the Banska PGP-7 well will strengthen the region’s energy infrastructure, supporting environmental goals and improving energy reliability.

The initiative reflects Poland’s growing focus on renewable energy, with geothermal heating offering a low-carbon alternative to traditional systems. As preparations progress, Geotermia Podhalanska aims to complete the project on schedule, ensuring long-term benefits for the Podhale community by late 2025.