OMV Sets December Start for Seismic Campaign to Unlock Deep Geothermal Energy in Graz

OMV Sets December Start for Seismic Campaign to Unlock Deep Geothermal Energy in Graz

(IN BRIEF) OMV will begin a seismic survey in the greater Graz area starting December 2025 to explore the deep geothermal potential of the East Styrian basin. Spanning approximately 900 kilometers and using environmentally friendly vibration methods, the campaign will investigate subsurface depths of 700 to 3,500 meters. Results will guide a planned exploration well in late 2026. If geothermal resources are confirmed, OMV will collaborate with Energie Steiermark and Energie Graz on a long-term plan to deliver climate-friendly heating to the region. The project is currently under regulatory review and reflects OMV’s commitment to transitioning to sustainable energy solutions.

(PRESS RELEASE) VIENNA, 10-Jun-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — OMV is preparing to begin an extensive seismic survey across the greater Graz region in December 2025, aiming to assess the area’s deep geothermal energy potential. This initiative focuses on the East Styrian basin, with plans to explore subsurface layers between 700 and 3,500 meters deep to evaluate the existence of viable geothermal heat reservoirs. The effort builds on OMV’s successful collaboration with Wien Energie in the geothermal joint venture “deeep” and leverages decades of expertise gained from operations in the Vienna Basin.

The survey, set to last a few weeks and extend into March 2026, will employ specialized seismic trucks that generate controlled vibrations along public roads. These vibrations are then captured by geophones to create a detailed image of the subsurface geology. The methods used are globally recognized and environmentally safe, with vibration levels comparable to natural ground movement.

Once seismic data collection is complete, OMV’s experts will analyze the results to pinpoint potential geothermal reservoirs. If confirmed, an exploration well is planned for the latter half of 2026. A successful discovery would lead to a broader partnership with Energie Steiermark and Energie Graz to harness geothermal heat for regional use, offering a long-term, climate-neutral energy supply for Graz. The project is currently awaiting regulatory approval from antitrust authorities.

Berislav Gaso, OMV Executive Vice President Energy, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “Deep geothermal energy is a key element in OMV’s transition strategy and a promising source of sustainable heat. Our work in Styria represents a vital step toward a secure, eco-friendly energy future.”

Covering a stretch of approximately 900 kilometers, the seismic campaign represents a critical milestone in OMV’s broader geothermal strategy and supports Austria’s ambition to develop cleaner, locally sourced energy solutions.

About OMV Aktiengesellschaft
It is our purpose to re-invent essentials for sustainable living. OMV is transitioning to become an integrated sustainable chemicals, fuels and energy company with a focus on circular economy solutions. By gradually switching over to the low carbon business, OMV is striving to achieve net zero by 2050 at the latest. In 2024, the company generated revenues of 34 billion euros with a diverse and talented workforce of around 23,600 employees worldwide. OMV shares are traded on the Vienna Stock Exchange (OMV) and in the US on OTCQX (OMVKY, OMVJF). For more information, please visit www.omv.com

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SOURCE: OMV