[25.7.2024] Geothermal energy initially had the green light in Switzerland. It was seen by the public as another clean and renewable resource, complementing the mosaic of solar, hydro and wind power systems. However, in 2006, the situation changed after an earthquake of 3.2 magnitude occurred near Basel when water was injected into a deep borehole. Despite the little material damage, the public resisted and the government eventually terminated the project in 2009. Subsequent analysis revealed the lack of a risk assessment study that should have preceded the project. Another shortcoming was the lack of publicity for the project and the low level of public awareness.
The Haute-Sorne geothermal project, launched a few years after the failed Basel project, had a number of enemies from the outset. A group of local residents questioned the permitting process and backed up their negative attitude with concerns about potential noise, negative impact on the landscape and groundwater quality. Another reason for the protests was the potential seismicity generated by the drilling operations and the little practical benefit to the local community. During the subsequent court process, the validity of the approval procedures was confirmed. Nevertheless, a petition was written by the locals demanding a complete halt to the work. A final decision has not yet been made, but as of 2019 the fate of the project is uncertain.
The project in Geneva was also initially met with a negative attitude from the locals, but was strongly supported by the government and eventually accepted by the public thanks to a good communication strategy. In March 2019, two deep wells were successfully completed here, providing hot water for the local heating system, and more are planned.
The above shows how important public and political support is for the success of geothermal projects. The pros and cons associated with this technology must be well defined and communicated in a transparent and understandable manner before the project begins. This is our goal as well and we therefore offer several ways to get to know the SYNERGYS project. Find out more on 31 October 2024 during the public hearing at the Castle in Litoměřice.
Sources: https://www.push-it-thermalstorage.eu/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/Webinar_Understanding_the_social_aspects_of_geothermalenergy_PC.pdf
