In this interview, Dr. Amel Barich, Founder & CEO of Geoscience Research and Communications (GRC) , shares insights into the future of geothermal energy, covering superhot geothermal systems, advanced drilling, international collaboration, social license to operate, developing-country opportunities, and the growing role of geothermal in integrated energy systems. Image : Dr. Amel Barich Founder & CEO, Geoscience Research and Communications (GRC) Geoscientist | Geothermal R&D&I | Social License to Operate Q1. Could you briefly introduce yourself and describe your current role in advancing geothermal innovation? I am a geoscientist and geothermal professional with a background spanning geothermal research and innovation, international collaboration, policy and science diplomacy, stakeholder engagement, and strategic communication. Over the past decade, I have worked from Iceland across major European and international geothermal initiatives, leading collaborative R...
OMV and Wien Energie’s Vienna Geothermal Tests Exceed Expectations, Boosting Clean District Heating Potential
OMV and Wien Energie’s Deep Geothermal Breakthrough in Vienna Signals a New Era for Urban District Heating By: Robert Buluma Image : Vienna Vienna’s energy transition just took a major step forward, and it came from deep underground. At the Aspern site in the Austrian capital, OMV and Wien Energie have reported that their deep geothermal tests exceeded expectations, producing hotter water and stronger output than originally forecast. The results do more than validate a promising project; they strengthen the case for geothermal energy as a serious solution for urban district heating, climate action, and long-term energy security in dense European cities. What makes this development notable is not just the temperature of the water or the technical success of the tests, but what those numbers imply for Vienna’s future. The city is working to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels while expanding clean heating options for households. Deep geothermal energy, unlike weather-dependent...