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In the autumn of 2025, a geophysical survey will be conducted in the Metropolitan Region Amsterdam (MRA), that covers parts of nine municipalities (Amstelveen, Amsterdam, Diemen, Ouder-Amstel, De Ronde Venen, Wijdemeren, Stichtse Vecht, Gooise Meren and Haarlemmermeer). This survey aims to map the subsurface in three dimensions, which is referred to as 3D seismic research. The goal is to collect more data regarding the deep subsurface. This information is essential for the development of geothermal energy as a sustainable heat source, to heat homes and office buildings using natural resources from within the earth.

To make this possible, in addition to heat networks, geothermal production sites are needed to supply heat to homes and buildings. Before these production locations can be selected and developed, more information about the subsurface must be gathered. This is what the geophysical survey in the MRA area aims to deliver.

Previous research by SCAN

This project is a follow-up of earlier 2D geophysical surveys conducted in 2021 and 2022, a research well in Ouder-Amstel in 2023 and a research well on Strandeiland in Amsterdam, which is planned for summer 2025.  

Status en planning

• May - August 2025

  Preparatory work (subject to change)

• September - December

  Survey takes place (subject to change)

• End of 2026

  Completion of data (subject to change)

Where the survey takes place

Also check the maps of the nine municipalities, which show where the seismic survey will take place.

Why are we conducting a geophysical survey here?

Previous geological subsurface studies have shown that the Slochteren sandstone layer is technically suitable for geothermal energy production in the MRA area. To further map the geothermal energy potential and to determine whether it is feasible to actually develop sites for geothermal energy production from the Slochteren sandstone, additional 3D seismic research is needed. The seismic data will be collected from depths of up to approximately four kilometers.

What is noticeable in the direct vicinity?

During the survey, sound waves will be sent into the ground using two different techniques: vibroseis seismic and shothole seismic. The echoes of these sound waves will be recorded by ground microphones (geophones) placed in grass, on sidewalks, or in open fields. If you see one, please leave it in place — they collect important scientific data. Depending on the technique and the location, generating the sound waves in your area can take anywhere from a few minutes to several hours. Some noise or vibrations may be noticeable on the surface. Residents in the immediate vicinity will receive a letter several days in advance informing them about the survey activities.

Collaboration

Geothermal energy is an important renewable resource for making the heat networks (also known as district heating) in Amsterdam and the surrounding municipalities more sustainable. That is why the City of Amsterdam, Vattenfall and EBN have joined forces. The Province of North Holland is also contributing financially to the project. The goal is to use the first geothermal source by 2030. SCAN’s research is crucial to achieving this goal. Vattenfall manages part of the heat networks and supplies heat, EBN has extensive knowledge of the geology of the subsurface and participates in several geothermal projects throughout the Netherlands, and the City of Amsterdam supports the development of sustainable heat sources. In the future, this partnership will be expanded with an operator who can develop and manage the geothermal production sites.