OMV starts production of Austria’s largest natural gas discovery in 40 years

• Three years after its discovery, OMV starts production at its gas field in Austria
• Around 11 TWh of gas to be developed in the first phase, with deliveries planned for winter 2026/27, and total recoverable resources of up to 48 TWh
• Gas production from Wittau strengthens supply security through domestic resources and will double OMV’s production in Austria at full ramp-up
• EUR 150 mn investment to date   

OMV announces the start of gas extraction from the Wittau well, in Austria. This milestone was marked in the presence of Dr. Christian Stocker, Chancellor of Austria, Dr. Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer, Federal Minister of Economy, Energy and Tourism, and Mag.a Johanna Mikl-Leitner, Governor of Lower Austria. Discovered three years ago, Wittau is OMV’s most important gas find in recent decades. 

Alfred Stern, Chairman of the OMV Executive Board and CEO, said: “Wittau represents the successful start-up of the largest gas discovery in Austria in the past 40 years. The project reflects OMV’s ability to deliver reliably on strategically important developments. It also strengthens our gas diversification strategy by increasing the share of domestic natural gas in our portfolio. At the same time, gas remains a crucial energy source – helping to secure supply today while simultaneously supporting the transition to a clean, renewable energy system.”

Dr. Christian Stocker, Chancellor of Austria, adds: “Today’s start of production in Wittau is more than the development of a new gas field. It is the largest gas discovery in Austria in several decades and a project of strategic importance for our country’s security of supply. At full capacity, OMV could double its gas production and thereby contribute to making Austria more resilient, more independent, and better prepared for crises. In light of current geopolitical disruptions, it is clear how important it is to make smart use of the own potential and to invest in modern infrastructure at domestic sites. The Wittau production facility demonstrates that security of supply is achieved where long-term thinking and consistent investment come together.”

In the first phase of the Wittau project, 11 terawatt-hours of gas will be developed (approximately 1 billion standard cubic meters) – equivalent to the heat supply of approximately 100,000 households over ten years. Following the investment decision in early 2025, production starts in the second quarter of 2026, ensuring reliable supply for the winter of 2026/27.

OMV is actively and successfully pursuing a diversified gas strategy, with domestic production from Wittau complementing its existing portfolio and strengthening supply resilience.

In the first phase, total investments in domestic resources amount to around EUR 150 million, including approximately EUR 70 million for drilling, and EUR 80 million for infrastructure and equipment. This investment generates local value, secures skilled jobs, and strengthens technological expertise in Austria.

Once fully developed, the project in Wittau is expected to double OMV’s gas production in Austria. With potential recoverable resources of 48 terawatt-hours (roughly 4.2 billion standard cubic meters),  it will help to extend and secure gas production in Austria long into the future. OMV also sees further investment potential of roughly EUR 500 million in the region, subject to market conditions and future decision-making.

Image material can be found here. Photos from the event will likewise be available at this link from around 2:00 p.m. today.