Introduction: A new era of urban heat in Vienna
In the face of climate pressure and growing demands for stable, emission-free energy sources, many European metropolises are seeking alternatives to gas and coal. Vienna, one of the world's best-rated cities for quality of life, has bet on deep geothermal as a new pillar of the heating system.
The project implemented by the company deeep (a partnership of Wien Energie and OMV) envisions creating a massive installation that could heat hundreds of thousands of households in the future. It is this project that caught the attention of The New York Times editorial board, which pointed to it as an example of European leadership in renewable energy.
Among the key contractors is RED Drilling & Services GmbH (UOS Group), responsible for the most demanding stage – advanced geothermal drilling.
Role of RED Drilling GmbH – technology changing urban energy
RED Drilling GmbH, specializing in deep drilling technology for the energy sector, brings to the project experience derived from the oil & gas industry, but fully adapted to geothermal needs.
Key elements of their contribution:
- Drilling to depths of several kilometers, enabling access to thermal reservoirs with temperatures >100°C
- Use of precise BHA and MWD/LWD systems (Measurement/Logging While Drilling) for well trajectory control
- Innovative solutions for well stabilization in difficult geological conditions
- Re-injection technology, essential for a closed thermal water circuit
- Work in an urban environment, maintaining noise and space restrictions
RED Drilling is one example of effective technological transformation: companies transferring know-how from the petroleum sector to modern renewable energy sources.
Technical section: How does deep geothermal work in Vienna?
1. Location and geology
- Installations are being built in the Aspern Seestadt area.
- Beneath Vienna lies a geological structure rich in water-bearing layers of sand-silt formations.
- Water temperature at depths of 3–4 km exceeds 100–120°C.
2. Execution technologies
- Production well: serves to extract hot water.
- Injection well: receives water after heat has been extracted.
- Well trajectories: often directional to optimally connect with horizontal aquifers.
- Direct connection to the heating network: water returns underground after releasing heat.
3. System operating parameters
- Water temperature: 100–120°C
- Potential thermal power of the first installation: over 20 MWth
- Target demand coverage: up to 200 000 households
4. Energy and environmental benefits
- no CO₂ emissions during operation
- independence from fuel imports
- stability: operates year-round, regardless of weather conditions
- longevity: 30–50 years of single well operation