LocationsWith the support of Slovakia, Novi Sad and Jošanička Banja will utilize geothermal energy
Green Energy in the Public Sector
February 10, 2026
Belgrade, 10 February 2026 - Thanks to the financial support of the Government of the Slovak Republic, the Heating Plant “Novosadska toplana” in Novi Sad and Jošanička Banja in the municipality of Raška will receive expert and technical assistance from United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) to develop projects for the application of geothermal energy. This includes assessing geothermal potential, feasibility analysis, and the development of feasibility studies with the aim of increasing the use of geothermal energy in Serbia and reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
Initiatives in Jošanička Banja and Novi Sad represent a significant step forward in enhancing the energy capacities of the public sector, improving air quality, and strengthening the energy security and economic sustainability of local communities.
In the residential area of Mišeluk in Novi Sad, the Public Utility Company "Novosadska toplana" is developing a modern fourth-generation district energy system in the urban zones Mišeluk II and III, including geothermal energy as part of a sustainable energy mix. In 2024, a new heating distribution network was constructed, and geological research was conducted for the development of a heat pump exploitation well for the future "Mišeluk" heating plant. With Slovakia's support, the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) will help the realization of the second phase of this project, which includes designing, conducting applied geological research, and constructing the exploratory-exploitation well (IEB-2) at the Mišeluk location.
Jošanička Banja
Photo: Dušan Stojančević
In Jošanička Banja, the Municipality of Raška plans to integrate geothermal energy into the heating system of the elementary school, sports hall, cultural center, healthcare facility, and reconstructed bath within the spa complex . These facilities are prioritized due to their public purpose, significant energy consumption, and proximity to existing geothermal sources. With Slovakia's support, UNDP will help in the creation of a Feasibility study for use of thermal mineral waters of Jošanička Banja to heat public facilities. Hydrogeological research confirms reserves of underground water of category "B" amounting to 12 l/s, with a temperature of 78°C, providing a strong basis for using geothermal energy for sustainable heating in Jošanička Banja.
Heating Plant “Novosadska toplana” and Jošanička Banja received support for the application of geothermal energy through the "Public Call for Expressions of Interest for obtaining technical support in developing geothermal studies and analyses“, announced by UNDP in April 2025. After evaluation of 14 submitted applications, these projects were recognized as the most mature and promising, considering proven geothermal potential, technical and economic feasibility, as well as readiness for investment realization.
To support the development of geothermal energy in Serbia, the Ministry of Finance of the Government of Slovakia allocated $200,000 within the framework of the "Public and Private Financing for Development" initiative, which is being implemented in partnership with the Ministry of Environmental Protection and the Ministry of Mining and Energy by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
