Aarhus – European Commissioner for Energy Dan Jorgensen addressed the concerns of member states regarding the REPowerEU plan, including Slovakia, during a meeting in Aarhus, as reported by TASR.
The Commissioner spoke to a group of European journalists in Skejby, a suburb of Aarhus, home to the EU’s largest geothermal power plant, a project he supported while serving as Denmark’s Climate Minister. The plant, which began exploratory work in 2023, is expected to generate 110 MW by autumn, supplying 20% of Aarhus’s thermal energy through geothermal water extracted from 2.5 kilometers underground at 70 degrees Celsius.
Jorgensen echoed the power plant officials, noting that abundant, renewable energy lies beneath Europe. He emphasized the straightforwardness of accessing this energy, while acknowledging the complexities involved in infrastructure investments.
EU countries can seek support through EU funds for geothermal energy projects, which have the potential to meet up to 20% of Europe’s energy needs. He highlighted its long-term stability as a reliable energy source, enhancing Europe’s energy independence, and noted that its development is politically advantageous, unaffected by global leaders.
Besides Denmark, countries like France, the Netherlands, Hungary, Germany, Poland, Romania, and Slovakia have significant geothermal energy potential. The EU has cautioned Slovakia about its underutilization of this resource.
Jorgensen pointed out that the EU imports fossil fuels worth 400 billion euros yearly, with Russia earning 1.8 billion euros monthly from gas alone, and that geothermal energy could help reduce these expenses.
In response to a TASR inquiry regarding the Slovak government’s stance on REPowerEU legislation targeting the ban on Russian oil and gas imports by 2027, Jorgensen shared that he has met with Prime Minister Robert Fico (Smer-SD) twice this year. He affirmed the European Commission’s commitment to addressing all member states’ concerns about the plan.
“I understand why Slovakia has concerns. We are doing everything we can to help.”
Jorgensen reiterated, “I understand why Slovakia has concerns. We are doing everything we can to help. I believe we will find a solution to ensure energy supply security.” He noted that EC experts met with the Slovak government the previous day and expressed hope that Slovakia would ultimately endorse the REPowerEU initiative.
He acknowledged that some member states are seeking compensation for losses incurred from reducing reliance on Russian energy, but clarified that the European Commission does not plan to offer subsidies. However, it will ensure sufficient gas and oil supply for Slovakia and its neighbors. (July 4)
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