Swiss Geo Energy secures surface exploration permit for Jorat project in the Canton of Vaud

The permit authorises SGE to conduct a non-invasive geophysical and geochemical exploration programme across the Jorat area in the Canton of Vaud. The measurements will include passive seismic, magnetotelluric, gravity, and soil gas surveys. This is the first permit in Switzerland to combine the exploration of critical molecules and deep geothermal resources within a single, integrated programme.

As Switzerland accelerates its transition away from fossil fuels and imported energy, the Jorat project addresses a strategic gap: the domestic exploration of energy resources that could contribute to long-term energy independence. Strategic molecules represent emerging frontiers in the energy and industrial sectors, while deep geothermal energy offers proven, continuous, low-carbon heat and electricity generation. By pursuing all three simultaneously, SGE’s Jorat programme sets a new benchmark for integrated subsurface resource exploration in Switzerland. The multi-objective exploration strategy also minimizes surface impact and reflects SGE’s commitment to responsible, community-sensitive exploration.

NATURAL HYDROGEN

Natural hydrogen, also known as white hydrogen, is formed through geological processes deep in the subsurface. Today, more than 90% of global hydrogen production relies on burning fossil fuels, generating high CO₂ emissions that carbon capture can only partially offset. Natural hydrogen offers a fundamentally different pathway by providing a low-emission alternative that does not require energy-intensive manufacturing processes. Once brought to the surface, it can be used to generate energy, either in the form of electricity or heat with water vapor as the primary by-product, resulting in a very low lifecycle carbon footprint and making it uniquely compatible with decarbonization goals.

HELIUM

Helium is primarily recovered from natural gas reservoirs and occasionally brine systems, where it has accumulated over geological time as a product of radiogenic decay of uranium and thorium. It plays a vital role across multiple high-value sectors, including healthcare, aerospace, and electronics manufacturing. As a critical strategic molecule with limited domestic production in Europe, its exploration within Switzerland represents both an economic opportunity and a key lever to reduce import dependency.

The Jorat project is the opening phase of a broader, multi-stage research programme. Following the completion of this initial exploration phase, SGE will analyse the results to assess the resource potential in the Jorat area. Should the findings be favourable, the programme will progress to a deeper characterisation phase, including an active 3D seismic survey to obtain a high-resolution subsurface image and evaluate integrated development concepts, including drilling and cogeneration opportunities.

‍"This permit enables the exploration of the region for critical resources, such as natural hydrogen and helium, and to quantify the potential for geothermal energy production within a single exploration framework. Decentralized production of these resources is key to reducing dependency on imports and supporting the energy transition.

I am proud to lead this pioneering project, which positions Switzerland at the forefront of subsurface energy innovation, and could serve as a model for future developments nationwide."

DR. PAROMITA DEB | PROJECT MANAGER, SWISS GEO ENERGY