| Abstract |
In the last three decades, continuous efforts in the exploration of geothermal resources in Switzerland have been made. In the 1980’s and the 1990’s, geothermal projects with wells down to 2600 m were realized at several sites for space heating or balneological applications. According to several studies, the potential of deep geothermal exploitation (>3000 m) in Switzerland is very high. Due to relatively limited exploration activities, the database of the deep subsurface in Switzerland is small. This implicates a relatively high risk for hydrothermal projects. On the other hand, the EGS technology for petrothermal projects is not yet well developed. Furthermore, the current legal situation does not support efficient exploration, and the financial encouragement by the federal government is very limited. Nevertheless, several deep (and nearly deep) geothermal projects are currently in different stages of development. All efforts should be combined to establish a generalized concept and procedure for the development of deep geothermal resources in Switzerland. To this end, a national cooperative for the exploration and development of the deep geothermal energy in Switzerland is proposed. This organization could be supported by electricity supply companies, other relevant industries, regional and federal governments, institutions and universities. |