Szaflary discovered “energy gold”. This will be the first such power plant in Poland

The latest geothermal well in Szaflary has a much higher deposit potential than expected, Rafał Szkaradziński, the mayor of the Szaflary commune, told PAP. The water temperature reaches 120 degrees Celsius, and the deposit capacity can be approximately 400 cubic meters/h, which potentially allows for the production of electricity, he explained.

A world record

The geothermal well in Szaflary was supposed to be record-breaking on a global scale – it was planned to reach a depth of 7 km and a temperature above 150 degrees C. The work started in April 2023 and was originally supposed to be completed in spring 2024. However, a number of technical problems were encountered. Very hard rock formations occurred at a depth of approximately 6 km, then the main engine of the drilling rig failed and the main cable broke at 6,096 m. Ultimately, the work was completed at the level of 6,103.2 m.

– We are still waiting for the final results confirmed by reports, but we can already say that both the efficiency and water temperature are higher than expected. We are talking about a capacity of 400 cubic meters. per hour and temperatures reaching up to 120 degrees C, with relatively low mineralization, estimated at approximately 12 g/dm3. – said Szkaradziński.

Two water-bearing horizons were confirmed during drilling. In addition to the well-known level used by, among others, Geotermia Podhalańska, a new one was discovered at a depth of approx. 5,000 m. m, which the commune plans to use.

Possible electricity production

– The parameters of the well will allow the production of electricity on a large scale. Taking into account the temperature of nearly 120 degrees Celsius, we have great potential to generate energy – explained the mayor.

When asked whether the energy would be enough to meet the needs of the heating company itself, Szkaradziński replied: – Certainly, the amount of electricity generated will be enough not only for the company, but it will be able to reach other recipients. This is a project that can ensure energy independence in our area.

– Production of electricity from geothermal sources is a pioneering project on a national scale; no other well in Poland has similar parameters. The area where we are located offers unique opportunities – added the mayor.

When asked about financing the project, Szkaradziński pointed out: – When implementing the entire investment from the beginning, we can count on the support of the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management (NFOŚiGW) and the Ministry of Climate and Environment. Obtaining such good drilling parameters will only strengthen this cooperation.

They are building a bus line

At the same time, the construction of a geothermal main, which is to be used to heat houses, is underway. – The progress of works is currently approximately 50%. We are building the main line primarily with the commune's residents in mind, as a framework for future district heating networks, said Szkaradziński. He noted that Nowy Targ is building its own section of the main line, which is also to be powered from the well in Szaflary.

This year, the commune will begin the construction of the first connections to approximately 80 buildings in the Szaflary commune. – We have building permits for nearly 1,000 heating connections in four villages. The only limitation may be financial resources and administrative barriers, which we hope to remove as soon as possible – added the mayor.

The commune does not rule out drilling further geothermal wells. According to Szkaradziński, the project is consistent with the European Union strategy and the energy policy of the Polish government, being of key importance for the region's energy security. (PAP)

szb/ lm/