Switzerland-focused decarbonised energy solutions company Swiss Geo Energy has been granted a surface exploration permit for its Jorat project, which will mark Switzerland's first initiative simultaneously targeting the exploration of natural hydrogen, helium and deep geothermal resources.

The permit authorises the company to conduct a non-invasive geophysical and geochemical exploration programme across the Jorat area in the Canton of Vaud.

Swiss Geo says its measurements will include passive seismic, magnetotelluric, gravity and soil gas surveys.

The company welcomes the permit as the first in the country to combine the exploration of critical molecules and deep geothermical resources within a single, integrated programme.

The Jorat project addresses a strategic gap as Switzerland accelerates its transition away from fossil fuels and imported energy, Swiss Geo states, adding that the domestic exploration of resources could contribute to long-term energy independence in the country.

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, Swiss Geo's Jorat programme sets a new benchmark for integrated subsurface resource exploration in Switzerland.

The company affirms that its multi-objective exploration strategy also minimises surface impact and reflects its commitment to responsible, community-sensitive exploration.

Natural hydrogen, or "white hydrogen", is formed through geological processes deep in the subsurface. Currently, more than 90% of global hydrogen production relies on burning fossil fuels, which generate carbon emissions that carbon capture can only partially offset.

Natural hydrogen, in this regard, offers a different pathway by providing a low-emission alternative that does not require energy-intensive manufacturing processes. Swiss Geo explains that once natural hydrogen is brought to the surface, it can be used to generate energy in the form of electricity or heat with water vapour as the primary byproduct.

This results in a low lifecycle carbon footprint, making natural hydrogen uniquely compatible with decarbonisation goals.

Following completion of the initial exploration phase at Jorat, Swiss Geo will analyse the results to assess the resource potential in the Jorat area. Should the findings be favourable, the company will progress to a deeper characterisation phase on the project and conduct an active three-dimensional seismic survey to obtain a high-resolution subsurface image and evaluate integrated development concepts.