In order to improve our understanding of the subsoil and enhance the safety of the project, vibrating trucks will shortly be travelling some 50 kilometres along four transects running parallel to and perpendicular to the Delémont Valley.

Objective and method

Vibrating trucks will travel approximately 50 km to carry out ‘reflection seismics’. Similar to a medical ultrasound scan, this non-invasive method sends waves into the subsoil. The reflected signals are picked up by geophones on the surface to create a 2D image of the local geology, thereby improving our understanding of the subsoil and enhancing safety.

Timetable and procedure

The surveys are expected to begin in early April (subject to cantonal authorisation) and last for two weeks. They will be carried out by the specialist company Geo2X.

Impacts and disruption

Operations will take place in the evening and at night to minimise disruption to traffic and ambient noise. Noise disturbance will be brief. Vibrations will comply with safety standards to protect infrastructure (buildings, roads), and local residents will be informed in advance.

Information for the public

An information morning featuring a demonstration of the equipment (including a vibration truck) will take place on Saturday 23 March from 10.00 am to 12.00 pm at the Bassecourt village hall.

Project background

This campaign forms part of the deep geothermal project in Haute-Sorne, for which exploratory drilling is due to begin next May. If successful, this project could supply electricity to more than 6,000 households.

Contacts:

Olivier Zingg, Directeur Geo-Energie Jura SA, T +41 79 321 43 20 (F), [email protected]

Peter Meier, CEO Geo-Energie Suisse AG, T +41 79 248 48 65 (D), [email protected]