Zalaegerszeg, Hungary complete 3D seismic survey for geothermal exploration
Vibro trucks used for 3D seismic survey in Zalaegerszeg, Hungary (source: zalaegerszeg.hu/Péter Seres)
Carlo Cariaga
31 Mar 2025
A 3D seismic survey has been completed in the city of Zalaegerszeg in Hungary, providing critical information on the potential for geothermal energy utilization.
A 3D seismic survey to explore for geothermal resources in Zalaegerszeg in the Zala County of Hungary is is set to be completed. With this, the city has made significant progress in establishing the potential for geothermal utilization particularly in the northern areas, bordered by the settlements of Nagykutas, Hottó, Zalaegerszeg, and Zalaszentlorinc.
Seismic measurements started in the first week of March 2025. A total of 3500 geophones were used, spaced 300 meters apart, to cover a survey area of 36 square kilometers. During the research, the sensors recorded the seismic vibration waves generated by vibro trucks. The project was executed by the Geological Service of the Hungarian State Geological Survey.
Based on the data obtained, a 3D model of the subsurface will be generated which will provide an indicative picture of the underground layers and their usability. The measurement covers the ZalaZone and Rheinmetal sites, as well as the agricultural areas in the outskirts.
At the project closing press conference, Dr. László Nagy, President of the Hungarian State Geological Survey, spoke about how the Authority has recently transformed the regulatory environment to make the implementation of geothermal projects more flexible. He mentioned that new regulations have come into effect in March 2023, which aimed to create efficient and fast administration.
He also highlighted that the results are already encouraging: in two years, more than 120 exploration permit applications have been received, 75 of which have already been approved, and the first utilization contract has even been concluded in Budapest.
In 2024, Hungary published a National Geothermal Strategy that outlines a path for the greater utilization of geothermal energy, setting a target to double geothermal energy output to 12 to 13 PJ by 2030.
Source: SZTFH
