Groundwater well at the rolling mill site (Münchenstein BL)

Construction of large-calibre groundwater wells for the extraction and return of groundwater in the Birstal groundwater flow for thermal use at the rolling mill site (Münchenstein BL)

The rolling mill site, a former industrial site in the municipality of Münchenstein (BL), is being converted for expanded use. Groundwater from the Birsta aquifer will serve as the basis for a sustainable, energy-efficient and CO2-neutral heating and cooling supply for the site. The licence for an existing groundwater well on the site has been renewed for this purpose. Due to a significant change in use from a former industrial use (process cooling) to an energy-related use for heating and cooling (residential and commercial), the feasibility had to be re-demonstrated in accordance with the applicable water protection legislation. Due to a significant change in use from a former industrial use (process cooling) to an energy-related use for heating and cooling (residential and commercial), the feasibility had to be re-demonstrated in accordance with the applicable water protection legislation.

The new concession authorizes the construction of additional extraction and return wells on the site. The entire plant is scheduled to commence operations in autumn 2026.

Special features:

• Use of shallow geothermal energy via groundwater from a loose rock aquifer with already intensive groundwater use for drinking and industrial water purposes
• Use on an industrial site by means of a multi-well system
• Large-calibre well construction with high required pumping capacity
• Application of innovative methods for well development