The National Sports Centre in Magglingen, Switzerland
In 2023, the Federal Office for Climate Protection (BBL) conducted a detailed subsurface survey around Magglingen. The extensive study sought to create an accurate geological map of the area’s underground and identify potential warm deep water reservoirs for geothermal energy. Data analysis revealed several promising deep water sources. However, the complex subsurface structure beneath Magglingen leaves some uncertainty in the findings, necessitating further exploration to refine the model and minimize risks for drilling.
The planned drilling, targeting depths of 1,500 to 2,300 meters, will clarify critical details such as water temperature, volume, and flow rate—essential factors for determining the feasibility of geothermal use. Exploratory drilling is a common step in such projects due to the unpredictability of deep water locations and characteristics, which directly impact economic viability. This effort will provide valuable insights into the subsurface while reducing project uncertainties.
Funding for the drilling requires approval from the Federal Parliament. The Federal Office for the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FOBL) will finalize cost estimates by the end of 2025 and is expected to submit them to Parliament within the 2026 Real Estate Dispatch. Alongside parliamentary funding, drilling permits from cantonal authorities are also needed to proceed with deep water utilization.
These efforts align with broader initiatives by the Federal Office of Public Safety (BBL) to lessen environmental impacts at the FOSP site. For instance, a district heating network, powered by wood pellets from a temporary energy center, was completed last year to serve most FOSP buildings in Magglingen. Additionally, the National Sports Center’s infrastructure is being steadily upgraded with photovoltaic systems to enhance sustainability. The geothermal project represents another step toward cleaner energy solutions for the facility.
