Decarbonisation of military infrastructure in Austria with geothermal energy

The Austrian Federal Ministry of Defence has embarked on an ambitious strategy to decarbonise its military infrastructure in alignment with national and European climate goals. A key focus of this initiative is the integration of geothermal energy into the heat supply systems of existing military camps. To date, eight military camps, spread across various regions of Austria and characterised by diverse building stock and usage patterns, have been evaluated for their potential to harness geothermal energy as a renewable heating solution.
This project examines the technical and economic feasibility of replacing conventional heat sources—primarily natural gas, oil, and in some cases, district heating—with sustainable geothermal solutions. The primary geothermal technologies under consideration include borehole heat exchangers and groundwater heat pumps. These options are being assessed in conjunction with necessary refurbishment measures for the building stock to improve energy efficiency and ensure compatibility with low-temperature geothermal systems.
The study involves a comprehensive analysis of each military camp’s hydrogeological conditions to determine the suitability for geothermal energy use. This includes the assessment of subsurface temperatures, groundwater availability, and the geological characteristics that influence the viability of borehole heat exchangers or groundwater-based systems. Additionally, the project evaluates the integration of geothermal energy within the existing infrastructure, focusing on how it can replace or supplement the current heating systems, thereby reducing greenhouse gas emissions and reliance on fossil fuels.
First results from the site investigations indicate significant potential for geothermal energy to decarbonise the heating supply in these military camps and the first implementation measures are being taken. However, the specific feasibility of implementation varies by location due to differences in geological conditions and the existing building infrastructure.
Beyond technical considerations, the project also addresses the economic implications of such a transition, weighing the long-term savings in energy costs and carbon emissions against the upfront investments in geothermal infrastructure and building refurbishments. The findings from this research will guide future decarbonisation efforts across the Austrian military, setting a precedent for the broader application of geothermal energy in public infrastructure projects.
The outcomes of this project will not only demonstrate the viability of geothermal energy for military facilities but also offer valuable insights into the broader application of renewable energy in multi-purpose building environments.