CKW and Localnet AG Examine Geothermal Energy Potential in the Burgdorf Area

CKW and Localnet AG are investigating geothermal energy potential in the Burgdorf region to provide continuous, climate-friendly heat and power. Discover how the project is progressing, what steps are planned, and what it could mean for sustainable energy in Switzerland.

Why Geothermal Energy Matters

CKW and Local Net AG have launched preliminary studies for a possible geothermal project in the Burgdorf region. The goal is to assess whether geothermal energy can be used to produce heat and electricity in a way that is climate-friendly and independent of weather conditions. Unlike solar, wind, and hydropower that depend on daily or seasonal patterns, geothermal can provide continuous, reliable energy an important factor in Switzerland’s push toward climate neutrality.

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Scope of the Initial Studies

In the coming months, CKW (a subsidiary of the Axpo Group) and Local Net Ag will:

• Analyze publicly available underground and geological data.
• Evaluate the potential for heat utilization in the Burgdorf area.
• Focus entirely on exploratory or “feasibility” steps no construction or major investment yet.

CKW contributes its experience from other geothermal projects, while Localnet AG adds deep knowledge of local conditions.

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Community Involvement & Transparency

If the region turns out to be suitably promising, the partners plan a public event by the end of 2025 to inform residents about the next steps in the evaluation.

Stefan Berger, Mayor of Burgdorf, emphasized the importance of transparency:

“It is very important to me that the public is informed from the start about this project.”

The focus on openness aligns with their strategy for sustainable energy and long-term energy security.

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Experience & Local Capacity

• Local Net AG: The municipal energy provider for Burgdorf and surroundings. They serve around 11,500 electricity, 2,500 gas, plus 350 heating customers, and are well versed in local infrastructure.
• CKW (Axpo Group): Active in renewable projects for years. They have technical know-how and ongoing projects in geothermal energy. External experts also support them.

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What This Could Mean for the Region

If the geology and infrastructure prove favorable, geothermal could offer:

• Steady heat supply without dependence on fuels or intermittent sources.
• Electricity generation that contributes to reducing CO₂ emissions.
• Improved energy security for Burgdorf.
• A model for similar regions in Switzerland exploring renewable energy diversification.

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Next Steps & What to Look Out For

Here’s what to watch:

1. Results of the underground and heat-potential studies.
2. The public presentation and stakeholder involvement by end of 2025.
3. Decisions on whether to move from study to pilot or implementation phase.
4. Technical, economic, and environmental feasibility.

The collaboration between CKW and Local Net AG to probe geothermal potential in Burgdorf is an important initiative. It reflects Switzerland’s broader energy-transition goals: greater use of renewables, more climate neutrality, and diversified energy sources. While it’s still early days, the emphasis on scientific study, transparency, and community engagement suggests that, if feasible, this project could become a strong contributor to regional and national sustainability.

This project also just concluded geothermal surveys

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Source: CKW

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