Geothermal heat pumps are widely regarded as an efficient solution for heating and cooling. However, adoption in Austria remains limited. Currently, they account for around 14% of installed heat pump systems, with high installation costs (particularly drilling!) being a key barrier.
One startup working on this challenge is Flexdrill, a Vienna-based company supported in its early stages by INiTS.
New Approach to Geothermal Drilling
Flexdrill was founded by Icelandic mechanical engineer Saevar Einarsson together with Andreas Michalka. The company is developing a hydraulic percussion drilling system designed specifically for geothermal applications.
According to the company, the system enables:
- drilling to depths of up to 200 metres
- shorter drilling times compared to conventional methods
- operation in confined spaces
The system requires approximately one square metre of space and can be used from within buildings, including basements.
Towards Integrated Installation
Flexdrill plans to sell its drilling systems to installers, who would then offer geothermal heat pump systems including both drilling and installation.
At present, homeowners typically need to coordinate separate providers for drilling and installation. The company states that combining both services could reduce overall costs and bring them closer to those of air-source heat pumps.
Development and Next Steps
The system is currently in development. A first deployment is planned for summer this year, with installation in an architectural office in Vienna’s 16th district.
Flexdrill aims to sell around 1,000 systems in the future. Each system is expected to cost approximately €200,000. The company states that its long-term goal is to enable the drilling of one million geothermal boreholes by 2035.
Background and Support
Einarsson’s background is closely linked to geothermal energy. His grandfather led Iceland’s national drilling programme for over 20 years and contributed to the development of the Svartsengi geothermal power plant.
Flexdrill has received funding from the Vienna Business Agency. Earlier development was supported through smaller investments, contributions from the founders, and backing from the Vienna-based high-tech incubator INiTS.
The company plans to manufacture its systems in Vienna or the surrounding region.
From Idea to Implementation
Flexdrill is one example of how early-stage startups develop and test new technologies with the support of an ecosystem.
Through the INiTS SCALEup Incubation Program, selected startups work on validating their business model, refining their product, and preparing for market entry. SCALEup combines hands-on support, mentoring, and access to a strong network of experts and partners.
→ Learn more about the SCALEup Incubation Program
