OMV and Energie Steiermark launch Tiefenkraft deep geothermal project
- Seismic survey of ~900 km of road measurement lines completed Feb–Apr 2026 to inform a detailed subsurface model.
- Exploration well 'Petersdorf 2' planned in St. Marein near Graz with preparatory work from Sept 2026 and drilling scheduled for Q4 2026; drilling and testing expected to take ~3–4 months.
- If successful, project could deliver up to 670 GWh/year by 2037—about 50% of greater Graz district heating—with first heat delivery possible as early as 2030.
- Joint development company structure: OMV 75% / Energie Steiermark 25%; Energie Steiermark to build and operate the ~20 km transmission pipeline with an investment of around EUR 150 million.
Project overview
OMV and Energie Steiermark have launched the Tiefenkraft joint project to evaluate and develop deep geothermal energy in Styria for the greater Graz heat supply. The partnership covers the full value chain from subsurface exploration to integration into the district heating network.
Seismic work and exploration
A seismic survey carried out between February and April 2026 mapped approximately 900 kilometres of measurement lines along roads. The acquired data are being evaluated to create a detailed subsurface model that will underpin the next project phases. The immediate next step is the planned exploration well 'Petersdorf 2' in St. Marein near Graz.
Timelines, testing and targets
Preparatory site work is scheduled to start in September 2026, with drilling planned for the fourth quarter of 2026 subject to permits and site construction. Drilling and the subsequent testing phase are expected to last about three to four months. If results are positive, the partners will decide on a first production/injection doublet and further testing; two additional wells are proposed to investigate an Aquifer Thermal Energy Storage (ATES) option. First heat delivery could occur as early as 2030, with a projected potential of up to 670 GWh/year by 2037—roughly half Graz’s district heating demand.
Governance and investment
The project is implemented via a joint development company with OMV holding 75% and Energie Steiermark 25%. Energie Steiermark will lead construction and operation of the roughly 20-kilometre transmission pipeline, with an estimated investment of around EUR 150 million. Planning for pipeline connection and system integration will progress in parallel with exploration and testing.
Source: OMV
