Geothermal Energy – A New Direction in Energy? – Łódź Geothermal Conference
On October 30, 2024, the Łódź Geothermal Conference took place in Łódź., organized by Veolia Energia Polska and Veolia Energia Łódź. The event was attended by experts from the energy sector – representatives of central administration, local governments, scientific institutions and the business sector – who jointly discussed the potential of geothermal technologies for the city of Łódź and the entire Łódź region. The discussions focused on the possibilities of using this energy in heating systems, such as the one operated by Veolia in Łódź.
"Our goal is to provide residents with clean, stable heat that is resistant to the variability of energy markets. Veolia consistently strives to implement ecological solutions, and the geothermal project is proof of our commitment to effective energy transformation and is consistent with the assumptions of our global GreenUp strategy" said Luiz Hanania, CEO of Veolia Energia Polska, during the opening of the conference.
Geothermal energy can be a stable, renewable energy source, covering up to 10–15% of a city's heating needs. "The realization of this ambitious goal requires a partnership of the 'golden triangle': local governments, business and science" said Krzysztof Zamasz, Vice President of the Management Board of Veolia Energia Polska.
The confirmation of this partnership was the signing of a Letter of Intent between the City of Łódź, Veolia Energia Polska, Veolia Energia Łódź and Innargi, declaring cooperation in the exploration and exploitation of geothermal resources. The aim of the project is to create a sustainable and ecological heat source, supporting the decarbonization of the municipal heating system.
"For Veolia, the development of sustainable energy solutions is a priority"- emphasized Anna Kędziora-Szwagrzak, President of the Management Board of Veolia Energia Łódź. "The inclusion of geothermal energy in our fuel mix is another milestone in the ecological transformation strategy. The partnership with Innargi and the City of Łódź enables the implementation of renewable heat sources in a wide range of decarbonization projects for the Łódź heating system" – added the president.
The geothermal project aims not only to supply Łódź's heating system with renewable energy, but also to support the city's green transformation and energy independence. The co-organizer of the event was the WSB Academy, and Innargi - a strategic partner.
