Seismic studies being considered for further geothermal exploration in Utrecht, Netherlands
Geophones places in shallow pits for seismic surveys (source: SCAN)
Carlo Cariaga
19 Aug 2025
After an exploration drilling campaign, further seismic surveys are being considered for geothermal research in the Utrecht province in the Netherlands.
Various exploratory drilling efforts have already been undertaken in and around the Amersfoort region in the province of Utrecth in the Netherlands to characterize its subsurface and potential geothermal resources. By the end of the year, the national SCAN program will decide if further seismic surveys will be necessary to advance the research.
This follows on exploratory drilling previously done in De Bilt, Ede, and Ouder-Amstel, as well as previous seismic surveys. To actually extract geothermal energy, more information about the deep subsurface is needed. This includes, among other things, the depth of the existing strata and the presence of faults. The target area of the seismic survey is the region northeast of the province of Utrecht, as shown below.
The first step of this supplementary research is to further map the subsurface and align it with the above-ground heat demand. Some of the necessary data for this is already available. Currently, studies are still ongoing into both the subsurface suitability and the heat demand. The research results are expected by the end of 2025. It will then be determined whether the seismic survey will take place, and if so, where exactly. SCAN aims to complete the accompanying plan by the end of 2025.
If the seismic survey will push through, it will likely happen in 2026. The exact timing cannot be indicated yet, as the availability of the contractor and the breeding season of animals in the region need to be considered. f seismic surveying proves feasible, it will be further coordinated with municipalities and water boards. Local residents will receive additional information prior to the survey.
Source: Amersfoort Region and SCAN
