Positive conclusions on Haute-Sorne geothermal project reported by federal committee
Information pavilion at the drilling site of the Haute-Sorne geothermal project, Jura, Switzerland (source: Geo-Energie Jura)
Carlo Cariaga
10 Apr 2025
A Federal Patronage Committee assigned to the Haute-Sorne geothermal project, Switzerland has given positive conclusions but recommends better communications.
A Federal Patronage Committee assigned to the Haute-Sorne geothermal project in the Canton of Jura in Switzerland has given an overall positive initial impression of the project. The Committee, however, made some recommendations for the project, two of which were concerning improved communications.
Drilling activities at the site of the Haute-Sorne geothermal site started in started in May 2024 and were completed by August. Various tests are still being done on the borehole as the project prepares for a reservoir stimulation program. To ensure that the project complies to good governance principles, a patronage committee composed of independent individuals was assigned by the Swiss federal government.
The Haute-Sorne geothermal project is under development by Geo-Energie Jura AG.
The first annual report presented by the Federal Patronage Committee is generally positive. The report also gave three recommendations for the further progress of the project:
- The committee recommends that the company improve the preparation of technical information about the project for a broader audience;
- The Monitoring and Information Commission is recommended to continue direct exchange and dialogue with the public;
- A strategy for monitoring borehole integrity should be developed to protect groundwater quality.
In 2025, the Patronage Committee will continue to monitor the progress of the work and risk management, particularly with regard to seismic risk and impacts on water resources. Particular attention will be paid to the results of the geophysical survey conducted in January 2025 and the stimulation tests planned for spring. The results of this work will be crucial for the further progress of the project.
Source: The Federal Council of the Swiss Government
