The recent heatwave has caused water consumption in Vienna to rise significantly and has once again highlighted the importance of an efficient drinking water supply. By expanding the water reservoir, the City of Vienna is investing in infrastructure designed to meet future demands.
Water demand rises as temperatures rise
During the recent heatwave, daily water consumption in Vienna reached as high as 580,000 m³ on some days – around 45 per cent more than on an average day. Although Vienna’s water reservoirs are currently well stocked, the city is taking a proactive approach and reducing water consumption, for example by restricting the watering of public green spaces. At the same time, the drinking water infrastructure is being consistently expanded.
More storage capacity for the future
A key project under this strategy is the expansion of the Neusiedl am Steinfeld water reservoir. With completion scheduled for 2028, the storage capacity will increase from the current 600 to 800 million litres. At the same time, the structure will be designed to allow for a future expansion to more than one billion litres.
PCD’s engineering expertise
PCD is responsible for the entire structural design of the new monolithic water tank for this project. As part of the construction work, around 35,000 m³ of watertight concrete and 5,400 tonnes of reinforcing steel will be used. The seamless, monolithic construction ensures that the structure is particularly watertight and durable, laying the foundations for a reliable drinking water supply for many decades to come.
Infrastructure for future generations
The expansion of the water reservoir forms part of the ‘Vienna Water 2050’ strategy and makes an important contribution to long-term security of supply. In light of increasingly frequent heatwaves and rising water demand, the project lays the groundwork for continuing to supply the people of Vienna with a reliable supply of high-quality drinking water in the future.
Further information on the project can be found in the latest ORF report (in German): City of Vienna cuts back on water consumption
