Renewable heat for the region
Podhalańska Geothermal is the largest and longest-operating geothermal system in Poland, which for over 30 years has been providing ecological heat for Zakopane and surrounding municipalities. The project, initiated in the early 90s, became the foundation of the region's energy transformation and one of the key tools in the fight against low-stack emission.
From pilot to modern system
The first geothermal installation was launched in 1994 in Bańska Niżna. From that moment, the system was systematically expanded – new production and injection wells, transmission mains, and distribution networks were created. A breakthrough was the commissioning of the Geothermal Heating Plant in Bańska Niżna and the main line to Zakopane, which enabled the liquidation of local coal boiler houses.
Dynamic development and investments
In subsequent years, Geotermia Podhalańska consistently increased its scale of operation. Thanks to support from EU funds and the National Fund for Environmental Protection and Water Management, projects increasing system capacity, energy efficiency, and heating network range were realized. Crucial importance had, among others, the commissioning of the Bańska PGP-3 well, modernization of pumping stations and heat exchangers, and investments in injection wells in Biały Dunajec.
Current scale of operation (2024)
Today Geotermia Podhalańska services over 2 thousand facilities and nearly 1.7 thousand heat consumers. In 2024, 126 new buildings were connected to the network, and ordered power increased to 84.6 MW. As much as 99% of heat demand is covered from a renewable energy source – geothermal waters.
Parallelly, further development investments are being realized, including drilling a new production well Bańska PGP-7 and construction of transmission infrastructure, which in coming years will allow for further increasing system power and reliability.
Significance for environment and residents
Geotermia Podhalańska significantly limits CO₂, dust, and other pollutant emissions, improving air quality in one of Poland's most important tourist regions. The system ensures a stable, local, and renewable heat source, strengthening the region's energy security and serving as a model for similar investments in the country.
Most important parameters of Podhalańska Geothermal
Significance for Podhale and Poland
Podhalańska Geothermal is not only the oldest but also one of the most extensive geothermal systems in Poland. Since the launch of the first geothermal heat installation in Poland, this project has become a pioneering technological solution and an example of transformation towards low-emission local energy.
It is not just a heat source - it is also a symbol of innovation and care for the natural environment, particularly important in a region of high natural and tourist value.
Podhalańska Geothermal is a project showing how energy from the Earth's interior can be effectively used to provide heat for residents, institutions, and tourists. Its success is the result of many years of investments, constant development of heating infrastructure, and commitment to environmental protection - all so that future generations can benefit from clean, renewable energy.