A summary based on the original press releases in German and French
The pilot project in Haute-Sorne is providing valuable insights into the construction and operation of geothermal plants throughout Switzerland
Following a demonstration in Delémont against the geothermal project in Haute-Sorne, Geo-Energie Suisse AG emphasises that all safety and environmental requirements have been met. This forward-looking project has been legally approved by the municipality, the Canton of Jura and the Federal Supreme Court.
Geothermal energy is a key pillar of Switzerland’s Energy Strategy 2050, as – unlike solar and wind power – it is not dependent on weather conditions, is environmentally friendly and provides a reliable supply of energy round the clock.
Prospects for an ‘inexhaustible, clean and continuous’ energy source
The Swiss Federal Office of Energy sees geothermal energy (particularly using EGS technology) as offering enormous, CO₂-free and space-saving potential for Switzerland. The pilot project in Haute-Sorne serves as an important research platform. Regardless of the power station’s future success, the planned exploratory drilling to a depth of 4 to 5 kilometres will provide valuable scientific insights into the nature of the entire subsoil in the Jura Arc between Geneva and Basel.
Safety is the top priority – seismic risk is minimised through comprehensive measures
The safety of the public is the top priority in all work. A comprehensive geophysical monitoring system safeguards the first phase of the exploratory drilling and testing. Only after a detailed analysis of this initial measurement data will decisions be taken, step by step, on further measures – such as a second borehole, the creation of the underground reservoir or the final construction of the power station.
No risk to groundwater
Historically, there has never been any groundwater contamination resulting from deep drilling in Switzerland. For the Haute-Sorne project, this issue was rigorously addressed in the environmental impact assessment: the boreholes will be completely sealed with cement-lined steel pipes, ensuring that no exchange with groundwater can take place, even when crossing aquifers.
Building acceptance through transparent information
CEO Peter Meier understands the public’s concerns and is therefore committed to maximum transparency and providing information. As the project enjoys broad political and legal support, he is confident that it will be accepted by the majority of the population. The project makes a decisive contribution to a climate-neutral energy future for the whole of Switzerland.
Please contact for further information:
Peter Meier, CEO Geo-Energie Suisse, Tel +41 79 248 48 65
| Geo-Energie Suisse AG is the Swiss centre of expertise in deep geothermal energy for the production of electricity and heat. The company was founded in November 2010. Its founding members include municipal utilities and regional energy suppliers from across Switzerland (aet, EBL, ewz, EOS, ewb, GVM, iwb). Geo-Energie Suisse SA employs around twenty staff and is also supported on an ad hoc basis by external specialists. |
| Geo-Energie Jura SA is a public limited company founded in 2015. Its shareholders are Geo-Energie Suisse SA, ebl, ewb and ewz. The company’s objective is to develop and subsequently operate the Haute-Sorne geothermal project. Under a tripartite agreement drawn up in June 2015 between the municipality of Haute-Sorne, the canton of Jura and Geo-Energie Suisse, the company is registered in the municipality of Haute-Sorne. |
