Geothermal Energy in Romania
Exploration for geothermal
resources began in Romania in the early 1960’s, arising
from a hydrocarbon research program, which, as an unexpected
benefit, also identified some promising geothermal areas.
Within these areas, over 250 wells, drilled to depths between
800 and 3,500 m, showed the presence of low enthalpy geothermal
resources. Completion and experimental exploitation of over
100 wells during the past 25 years has enabled evaluation
of the exploitable heat available from these geothermal
resources. Proven geothermal reserves in Romania are currently
about 200,000 TJ for 20 years.
The main Romanian geothermal
resources are found in porous and permeable sandstones and
siltstones (for example, in the Western Plain and the Olt
Valley), or in fractured carbonate formations (Oradea, Bors,
North Bucharest).
