Hungary has one of the richest geothermal resources in Europe. The geothermal anomaly in Hungary lies in the fact that at a depth of 2000 metres hot water can be found at temperatures between 110°C and 130°C. The total amount of thermal water which can be found in sandstone strata has been estimated to be some 2500 km3. This paper outlines the results of a major information survey of these geothermal water resources. Some possible joint ventures for the exploitation of geothermal energy are discussed, as well as the natural, economic and organizational obstacles to these developments.