WESTERN MACEDONIA

Lefkovrysi, 50150, Kozani

The abundance of energy-related mineral resources, rich mineral deposits, and plentiful water reserves—both groundwater and surface—led to the establishment of the Regional Unit of Western Macedonia (PMDM) of EAGME, based in the city of Kozani. The simultaneous need for a chemical laboratory in the wider area of Western Macedonia also contributed to the creation of PMDM. In Greece’s largest energy hub, the Regional Unit of EAGME has, through its geological and mining research, consistently supported the development of both the local economy and the country at large.

Indicative examples include:

1. Participation in identifying major lignite deposits in the Kozani–Ptolemaida–Amyntaio–Florina basin on behalf of PPC (Public Power Corporation). A noteworthy lignite deposit was also identified in the Elassona area.
2. Geological and mining surveys revealed rich chromite deposits in the wider Vourinos mountain area.
3. Identification of feldspar deposits in the Argos Orestiko area (Kastoria).
4. Expansion of marble reserves in the quarrying zones of Tranovalto (Kozani) and the Vermio Mountains.
5. Identification and recording of potential dam sites (e.g., Mesovouno).
6. A decisive contribution by PMDM to regional water-resource management. Systematic research subdivided Water District 09 into discrete aquifer systems with defined characteristics, emphasizing both major karst aquifers (NE Vermio, SW Vermio, etc.) and alluvial aquifers (Srigkiol, Ptolemaida, etc.).
7. Through numerous hydrogeological studies, PMDM helped solve drinking-water supply issues for dozens of municipalities—most notably the Municipality of Kozani—and continues to monitor the quantitative and qualitative status of Water District 09 via a network of hydrological monitoring points.
8. Participation in Environmental Rehabilitation Studies for uncontrolled waste disposal sites (ΧΑΔΑ) on behalf of the Ministry of the Interior.
9. Participation in recording sites for the disposal of solid and liquid waste (Fokida, Evrytania, etc.).
10. Participation in the KEDE project to address technical—and primarily drinking-water—challenges faced by municipalities in the region.
11. Cross-border collaborations with neighboring countries (Albania, North Macedonia) on hydrogeological research of major karst aquifers in the wider Prespa and Ohrid lake areas.
12. Soil and geochemical studies in the greater Kozani–Ptolemaida basin.
13. Thousands of geochemical analyses were performed—while operational—at PMDM’s fully equipped chemistry lab, supporting geological research.

Recently, PMDM has been involved in two nationwide EAGME projects: the DIPYN project (Groundwater Monitoring Network) for Water District 09 and the SAMY project (Systematic Inventory of Hydrogeological Boreholes).