Vienna’s Otto Wagner area completes geothermal drilling

About 430 geothermal boreholes have been completed at Vienna’s Otto Wagner area, a historic complex, as part of plans to expand its use of renewable energy, according to ORF. The deep probes will work with heat pumps to provide climate-friendly heating and cooling for the complex.

The drilling was completed in July. The boreholes were then professionally sealed and the temporarily affected areas restored. Further work on the planned energy facility is still pending.

The geothermal system is expected to provide a large share of the complex’s future heating and cooling needs. It will use relatively stable underground temperatures: heat stored underground can be used for heating in winter, while the system can provide cooling in summer.

The project is intended to reduce the use of fossil fuels and cut emissions. Photovoltaic systems are also planned for the roofs of the pavilions. Together, the two technologies are expected to increase the share of renewable energy used at the complex and contribute to more stable energy costs over the long term.

Landscaping planned for autumn

The areas affected by the drilling will not be fully landscaped until autumn. WSE Wiener Standortentwicklung said current high temperatures and longer dry periods mean conditions are not suitable for sustainable seeding at present.

The work had to take account of the special conditions of the site, according to the Otto Wagner area’s management. The complex is protected as a historic monument and includes extensive green spaces as well as historic buildings.

Redevelopment of the Art Nouveau complex

The geothermal drilling is part of the ongoing redevelopment of the Otto Wagner area. Since 2023, its core area has been undergoing renovation and gradual adaptation for new uses in education, culture, science, technology and research.

With more than 50 pavilions, the complex is one of Vienna’s important Art Nouveau ensembles. Its redevelopment focuses on preserving the protected complex and maintaining its commemorative function.