The Austrian state-backed energy company expects to drill an exploration well in the second half of 2026.
The seismic campaign is scheduled to conclude by March 2026 and will investigate subsurface conditions between 700 and 3,500 meters in depth. OMV aims to identify high-temperature water resources suitable for geothermal heat production. If promising conditions are confirmed, OMV will partner with Energie Steiermark and Energie Graz to pursue long-term geothermal heat extraction, offering a sustainable and climate-friendly heating solution for the city of Graz.
OMV explained that special seismic trucks will be deployed to generate ground vibrations primarily along public roads. These vibrations will reflect off subsurface rock layers and be recorded by geophones, allowing for detailed mapping of the geothermal structure. The company emphasized that these vibrations are comparable in strength and frequency to natural ground movements and do not negatively impact the environment. The survey will cover approximately 900 kilometers of terrain.
In a press release, OMV stated: “OMV has many years of experience with seismic campaigns and uses methods in Styria that have been tried and tested and have proven themselves worldwide in the past. The project is currently in the approval phase, during which all the necessary official approvals are being obtained to ensure compliance with legal requirements.”
Pending favorable results, the first exploration well is planned for the second half of 2026. If successful, it will pave the way for a geothermal heating system that could significantly contribute to the region’s energy transition and emission reduction goals.
In a related effort, OMV and Wien Energie GmbH launched a geothermal joint venture called “deeep” in November 2023. The venture began drilling operations in Vienna for a geothermal plant with an estimated capacity of 20 megawatts—sufficient to provide heating for around 20,000 households. The facility is expected to begin operation in 2028.
The total investment for the Vienna project is projected to reach EUR 90 million, partially funded by Austria’s Ministry of Climate Protection. The joint venture also includes plans to construct up to seven additional deep geothermal plants in the Donaustadt and Simmering districts. However, timelines and plant output will be determined based on insights gained from the pilot plant in Aspern.
Through these geothermal projects, OMV aims to diversify its energy portfolio and support Austria’s transition to low-carbon energy systems while reinforcing its commitment to renewable energy innovation and infrastructure development.
