| Abstract |
Recent studies have shown that geothermal energy could play a major role in the Geneva Basin (Switzerland), since it could cover 20% of the canton's heat demand by 2035. To achieve this goal, the state of Geneva and the Industrial Services of Geneva (the local energy provider) have launched in 2014 the GEothermie2020 Program. This program aims to improve knowledge of the subsurface and establish an institutional framework adapted to a massive and sustainable development of geothermal energy. In its initial stages, the GEothermie 2020 program financed different academic works aiming at gathering, reinterpreting and jointly valorizing large amount of existing but heterogeneous geological knowledge and data over the Geneva basin, in order to constitute a robust and coherent dataset, harmonize the regional stratigraphic framework and establish the data model and architecture of a structured information system. Since then, this important dataset has been continuously enriched by the acquisition of new geophysical and geological data (including exploration drilling) involving both academia and local private companies, all participating to precise the geothermal potential of the Geneva basin. The development of geothermal energy in Geneva and region raises various questions regarding the management of subsurface resources and data. As owner of the subsurface and its resources, the Geneva state is responsible to collect all data that describe the local geological and hydrogeological conditions. This role is now further clarified by a new cantonal legal framework on subsurface resources (, 2017). In addition to their role of regulator and data provider, the authorities of Geneva must now also ensure the planning, coordination and administration of a growing amount of data generated by increased use of the subsurface including a fast development of geothermal projects. To ensure a sustainable and coordinated use of the subsurface resources, geological data and energy demand information must be efficiently gathered, stored and administrated in appropriate information system (IS), then valorized and diffused through dedicated tools. For the development of such an integrated information system, following aspects have been considered: 1) having a robust and scalable data model architecture able to host various types of raw and interpreted data; 2) selecting adapted 2D and 3D IT tools for database administration as well as efficient data collection, valorization and diffusion platforms; 3) defining coherent data workflows for the complete administrative follow-up of geothermal projects, from their planning stage through their entire lifetime. In parallel, such technical evolution implies the adaptation and precision of the regulatory framework in order to provide appropriate basis to improve the collection of data and related requirements in terms of standards, formats, deadlines and quality of information. The future IS will then be able to gather all information related to the subsurface, answer queries to produce and diffuse up to date information including maps and 3D geological models in order to respond to the growing needs in terms of subsurface information. This will also guide geothermal project owners and assist the authorities for an optimal management of the subsurface resources in Geneva to guarantee a sustainable and coordinated use of geothermal resources, in line with the cantonal and federal strategy toward extended use of renewable energy. |