A new energy and natural resources investigation method: Geneva case studies

The Praille–Acacias–Vernets suburb, located in Geneva, Switzerland, is today considered as an outworn city area (2.3 km2). It consists of parking lots, industries, businesses and marshalling yards. The Geneva Government decided to remodel this suburb to effectively allow for city growth while complying with the highest energy efficient and environmental standards in urban development. A masterplan was accepted in spring 2007. It did not take into account the various energy and natural resources of the area at that stage.BG Consulting Engineers was thus mandated to assess a set of resources related to energy and environment, such as geothermal power or roundwater. For this purpose, a new investigation method was tested. It integrated the Deep City approach (Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Lausanne), which promotes the sustainable use of urban underground resources.The BG method consisted in (1) establishing a geodatabase regrouping all available data (Geographic Information System), (2) identifying, localising and quantifying the different resources and (3) identifying and discussing all synergies and conflicts that might arise during their exploitation. This third step constitutes a real improvement allowing for anticipated decision making, thus avoiding future compatibility issues.Results of this study consisted in lists and maps of (1) raw resources, (2) technical and economical opportunities and constraints of exploitation, and (3) practical synergies and conflicts of exploitation. In addition, further necessary studies were identified along with synthetic scopes of work.Results were convincing and highly considered by the Geneva Government. For example, geothermal power resources were localised along with possible exploitation technologies and quantified extractable power. Synergies like combined exploitation of geothermal power and groundwater were also identified while conflicts such as spatial occupation were localised and discussed. These examples, among many others, validate this BG innovative method integrating the Deep City concept.

A better understanding of the territory leads to better integration of resources.Figure optionsDownload as PowerPoint slideHighlights
► A new natural and energy resources investigation method for sustainable cities.
► Resources are considered at an early stage of the planning.
► This leads to better integration of resources in urban development.
► Four examples of application in Geneva, Switzerland.