Swiss Geo Energy to launch geophysical campaign in Eclépens region

Simplified diagram of a how geophysical seismic campaign works (source: Swiss Geo Energy)

Carlo Cariaga 29 Aug 2023

Swiss Geo Energy (SGE) has announced the imminent launch of its geophysical campaign as part of the GeoCogen Eclépens project in the Eclépens region of Switzerland. The campaign will take place between September 20 and October 9, 2023, in the area defined by its surface research permit of 104 km². This sector includes 32 municipalities in the Jura-Nord, Morges, and Gros-de-Vaud districts.

The GeoCogen Eclépens project aims to explore the geothermal potential of the region to produce heat and electricity by 2030. We had previously reported on the granting of the right to proceed by the state of Vaud for the project.

Mapping the geological subsurface structures

This geophysical prospecting phase will allow the construction of a 3D geological model between the surface and approximately 4,000 meters deep. This model will also define the trajectory of the future exploration well, the execution of which will be subject to a subsurface research permit application.

The Eclépens region was chosen because of its exceptional geological characteristics. Indeed, historical data analyses revealed temperatures of over 110°C at just 2,100 meters deep. The planned exploitation technology, called hydrothermal, will not require hydraulic stimulation.

Measurements to be done at night

Four vibrating trucks operated by the Yverdon geophysics company Geo2X will travel the roads and some accessible and authorised municipal and forest accesses between September 20 and October 9, 2023. The campaign will occur at night between 8:00 pm and 6:00 am to minimize inconvenience for residents and traffic disruptions.

The vibrating trucks will move under the supervision of a specialized team to maintain safety guidelines and ensure compliance with current regulations. Each truck will operate in a given area for 30 minutes. The route plan, scheduled 24 hours and 72 hours in advance, will be updated daily on the website www.swissgeoenergy.com.

Public information campaign

To present the challenges of the GeoCogen Eclépens project and answer questions from the region’s residents about the upcoming campaign, Swiss Geo Energy is organising an “open house” half-day on September 9 from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm at the La Sarraz’s “salle du Casino”.

A significant contribution to the federal and cantonal energy and climate strategies

GeoCogen Eclépens is a visionary deep geothermal project supported by the Federal Office of Energy (OFEN). It aims to produce renewable heat and electricity by 2030 jointly. Swiss Geo Energy’s activities fully align with the objectives of the federal energy strategy and those of the climate and innovation law adopted by the people on June 18, namely, to contribute to the development of renewable energies and achieve carbon neutrality.

Source: Email correspondence