In Riehen, Wärmeverbund Riehen AG (WVR AG) is planning to commission a second geothermal plant with the “geo2riehen” project. WVR AG wants to focus on proactive, transparent and dialog-oriented communication. Based on its expertise and experience, the Risk Dialogue Foundation advises WVR AG and is primarily responsible for informing and dialoguing with the public.

After the residents’ council approved a corresponding application from the municipality in September 2020, Wärmeverbund Riehen AG is now actively planning the second borehole to tap naturally available thermal water for heat utilization. The next steps are seismic surveys to explore the subsurface for “geo2riehen” in summer 2021. These are important for determining the suitability of a subsequent drilling target. If the feasibility of the project is confirmed, the first of two boreholes could be started in 2023. Comprehensive information and the involvement of the Riehen population is very important to WVR AG, the municipality of Riehen and IWB. The Risk Dialogue Foundation was therefore consulted as an experienced organization to ensure the early involvement of the population and a needs-based dialog.