Swiss Federal Office of Energy supports the GeoCogen La Broye geothermal project

This federal support follows the consolidation of all required surface exploration permits across the cantons of Vaud, Fribourg and Berne, resulting in an authorised exploration perimeter of approximately 500 km². Together, these elements enable the preparation of a large-scale, surface-based geophysical exploration programme aimed at improving the understanding of the deep geothermal potential of the La Broye region.

The decision by the SFOE confirms the strategic relevance of the GeoCogen La Broye project for Switzerland’s energy transition. Deep geothermal energy has the potential to provide clean, renewable and locally sourced baseload energy, contributing both to district heating networks and to long-term electricity supply at cantonal and national levels.

With its consolidated perimeter and federal backing, GeoCogen La Broye represents one of the largest onshore geothermal exploration programmes currently planned in Europe. The upcoming geophysical exploration phase will focus on acquiring high-resolution subsurface data through non-intrusive, surface-based methods, forming a critical foundation for the identification and assessment of future geothermal drilling prospects.

“Delivering a surface-based geophysical exploration programme of this scale, across several cantons, requires strong project governance, robust resources and highly specialised expertise,” says Philippe Corboz, Director Switzerland at Swiss Geo Energy. “The support of the Swiss Federal Office of Energy confirms the solidity of the project framework and our ability to deliver this campaign in line with the highest technical and regulatory standards.”

The GeoCogen La Broye project aims to develop a comprehensive understanding of the region’s deep geothermal potential, with the objective of building a portfolio of future drilling prospects capable of supporting the growing demand for clean, renewable, and locally sourced baseload heat for district heating networks, as well as cantonal and national baseload electricity needs. This step-by-step approach reflects Swiss Geo Energy’s commitment to responsible project development within a robust regulatory framework.

The planned project timeline includes several key phases. A permitting phase is scheduled to start in spring 2026 and will focus on the regulatory and administrative processes required to secure all remaining authorisations for the geophysical survey, in coordination with cantonal authorities, municipalities, landowners and other local stakeholders. The surface-based geophysical acquisition is planned to begin in winter 2026–2027 and is expected to last approximately five months. During this phase, controlled seismic signals will be generated and recorded using surface-deployed equipment. Preliminary results from the processing of the geophysical dataset are expected in the fourth quarter of 2027.

Building on the experience gained from previous geothermal projects in Switzerland, Swiss Geo Energy views GeoCogen La Broye as a key pillar in the continued development of its national geothermal portfolio.

‍“SGE aspires to become a European leader in geothermal cogeneration and is determined to further develop its Swiss activities,” adds Eric Leoutre, Chief Operating Officer of Swiss Geo Energy. “The GeoCogen La Broye project builds directly on the experience gained from the GeoCogen Eclépens project, which demonstrated the value of 3D geophysical data acquisition for de-risking geothermal developments.”

All activities associated with the GeoCogen La Broye project will be carried out in full compliance with applicable Swiss environmental protection and safety standards. Swiss Geo Energy will continue to provide project updates as the project progresses.

About Swiss Geo Energy

Swiss Geo Energy (SGE) is a key player in the exploration, storage, and exploitation of renewable underground resources in Switzerland and Europe. A subsidiary of Ad Terra Group, SGE aims to develop, execute, and finance innovative and decarbonised energy projects.‍