Exploratory geothermal drilling at Przylasek Rusiecki in Krakow, Poland, which was originally scheduled for 2026, has been pushed back to 2027 because the planned drill site coincides with the construction of a high-pressure gas pipeline. This means that the design documentation of the well will now have to be updated before a drilling tender can be published.
In 2023, Poland’s Ministry of Climate and Environment approved funding of about PLN 12.33 million (USD 3.25 million) for the drilling of a geothermal research well in Krakow. The total cost of the project is estimated at PLN 15.2 million, with the city covering the rest of the cost. The initial plan is to drill the well to about 1820 meters depth, where thermal waters at 55 ºC are expected.
As explained by the Krakow District Heating Company (Miejskie Przedsi?biorstwo Energetyki Cieplnej S.A. / MPEC), the project is already in the advanced stages of preparation, with tender documentation being developed. However, a DN700 high-pressure gas line will now be constructed which will run through the plot designated for the drilling. The design for the well will now have to be revised to accommodate the new gas infrastructure.
If the drilling confirms the viability of the geothermal resource, MPEC plans to use it to heat nearby facilities, chiefly the Przylasek Rusiecki recreation and leisure center. Discovery of thermal waters can also enable the construction of geothermal pools, similar to others found in the Podhale region.
Source: Portal Samorzadowy
