Wedoany.com Report-Jun 2, Drilling has commenced on the first geothermal well at Liszt Ferenc International Airport in Budapest, Hungary, with the potential to replace the airport’s natural gas heating system. The project, managed by Arctic Green Energy Terv Kft and executed by state-owned Rotaqua Kft, aims to significantly reduce the airport’s carbon footprint if successful.

Geothermal drilling operations at the Budapest Airport in Hungary 

László Eiszrich, Deputy Chief Technical Officer of Budapest Airport, stated: “As a responsible airport operator, we are convinced that urgent action and long-term, sustainable solutions are needed in environmental protection.” He added: “If the exploratory drilling brings the expected results, it will be a huge step towards reducing carbon dioxide emissions from the airport’s direct activities by more than 90% by 2030 at the latest.” The initiative supports sustainable operations, focusing on local energy needs without impacting trade dynamics.

The project benefits from Hungary’s new geothermal licensing framework, established by the Hungarian Regulatory Authority (SZTFH). This reform has accelerated interest in geothermal energy, with 73 of 123 research applications approved in the past two years. Attila Steiner, State Secretary for Energy, noted: “By exploiting its potential more intensively and building on the favorable conditions of the Carpathian Basin, geothermal energy can become a driving force for the Hungarian green economy.” He emphasized Hungary’s goal to double geothermal use by 2030, supported by the National Geothermal Utilization Concept adopted in 2024.

Hungary is a leader in European geothermal energy, with operational systems in cities like Szeged, Győr, Miskolc, and Szentes. The government’s Jedlik Ányos Energy Program, the largest sectoral modernization effort in Hungary’s history, allocates significant funding to geothermal projects, with applications totaling over 440 billion forints (approximately €1.1 billion). Three of ten program calls specifically promote geothermal investments, fostering growth in renewable energy.

Dr. László Nagy, President of SZTFH, stated: “The numbers indicate that geothermal is gaining momentum in Hungary, and that the country is successfully mobilizing its resources to develop this renewable resource.” The Budapest Airport project exemplifies Hungary’s commitment to expanding clean energy, enhancing energy security, and supporting economic development through sustainable practices.