About
GeoCogen Eclépens
Located in Vaud canton, this project extracts the geothermal energy to provide electricity and heating to local communities. By using hydrothermal systems, GeoCogen Eclépens demonstrates how renewable energy development can serve environmental and economic goals while contributing to Switzerland's carbon reduction efforts.
The objective:
A geothermal power plant producing local heat & power
The GeoCogen Eclépens aims at developing hydrothermal geothermal technology to deliver energy solutions for the region. By 2030, households and businesses in the region will receive heat directly via the Cadcime heating network, benefiting from local and renewable energy. The electricity produced will be fed into the Swiss electrical grid, increasing the share of renewable energy.
Hydrothermal technology
Using hydrothermal systems that exploit natural geological structures, without fracking, facilitating groundwater circulation at depths exceeding 2000 meters, where temperatures can reach 110°C.
Environmental approach
Implementing hydrothermal methods with environmental monitoring and adherence to geothermal exploration protocols, with support from the State of Vaud and federal energy authorities.
GeoCogen Eclépens:
A multi-phase project
The GeoCogen Eclépens project follows a structured development approach across four phases. Analysis of historical geophysical data from the Eclépens region has led to a new geological interpretation of the subsurface that confirms the thermal anomaly favorable for geothermal exploitation.
2023
Geophysical campaign
Completed the 3D seismic acquisition over 32 communes in the Eclépens region
2024-2025
Processing & interpretation
Data analysis including 3D models, geological maps, fault analysis, and similarity mapping
2026-2027
Drilling preparation
Final preparations for drilling operations
2027
Drilling
First geothermal well drilling
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2030
Commercial phase
Finalising doublet and launching the commercial operations (1.5 Mwe & 18 MWth)
Thermal anomaly in the Eclépens subsurface
Historical geophysical data confirms Eclépens' exceptional geothermal potential, with temperature profiles showing significantly elevated thermal gradients compared to neighbouring sites like Chapelle and Savigny.
Possible elevated subsurface heat levels
The Eclépens-1 borehole (1981) recorded temperatures reaching 110°C at depths exceeding 2,000 metres. This thermal anomaly indicates a viable geothermal reservoir located within hundreds of metres of the existing well.
Commercial viability
for energy production
The reservoir's proximity to existing infrastructure makes Eclépens ideal for supplying the Cadcime district heating network and electricity generation, positioning it as a prime location for sustainable geothermal development.
Deep geothermal energy:
The hydrothermal approach
Swiss Geo Energy employs hydrothermal technology, targeting naturally heated groundwater circulation at depths exceeding 2,000 metres. This approach avoids hydraulic stimulation (fracking), enabling both district heating and electricity generation without underground fracturing.
Proven safe technology
Hydrothermal technology has operated successfully for decades around Paris and over 15 years near Munich without causing seismic activity or environmental issues. This non-invasive method requires precise geological characterisation through geophysical measurement campaigns like the current GeoCogen Eclépens project.
Transparent
development process
All activities follow strict safety protocols with Canton Vaud state approval and technical oversight from cantonal and federal energy office experts throughout the measurement campaign, ensuring stakeholder dialogue and transparency in support of Switzerland's energy strategy.
Deep geothermal energy: clean and sustainable
Geothermal energy is a renewable energy source that does not depend on seasonal variations, weather conditions or the day-night cycle. It is entirely in line with the energy strategies of the Confederation and the canton of Vaud.
Geothermal energy has a small environmental print throughout its value chain, and a geothermal power plant footprint is negligible since the energy valorisation occurs underground.
Discover Switzerland's geothermal opportunity
Partner with Swiss Geo Energy's systematic clean energy development, where established subsurface expertise creates innovative geothermal solutions. Our comprehensive portfolio scales through three strategic phases—proof of concept, expansion, diversification—delivering consistent returns while driving Switzerland's Energy Transition forward.
