These mysterious boxes, which have appeared since March 2024 in several French cities play a crucial role in the exploration of the geothermal potential of our basements. A mission that could well radically transform our way of heating up in the years to come.
Advanced technology at the service of the energy transition
The project Geoscanlaunched in February 2024, represents a major innovation in the quest for renewable energy. These boxes are actually Ultrasensible seismic sensors. Their mission? Cartograph with unprecedented precision the geothermal resources hidden under our feet.
The functioning of these sensors is based on close collaboration with “vibrating trucks”. These specialized devices roam the streets equipped with these boxes by emitting waves which penetrate deep into the ground. The orange and white sensors then enter into action, meticulously recording the echoes returned by the different geological layers.
This invisible dance between vibrating trucks and sensors allows scientists to draw up a detailed map of the areas conducive to geothermal exploitation. A technological feat that would not have been possible a few years ago.
An ambitious project for the French energy future
The installation of these boxes is part of a daring national strategy: Double the use of geothermal energy in heat production by 2030. An objective that takes on its full meaning in the face of the challenges of climate change and the need to reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.
The first deployments started in the Yvelines, with cities like Versailles, hatches and pleasure acting as pioneers. These municipalities quickly understood the interest of participating in this exploration of the local geothermal potential. The location of each case has been the subject of an in -depth technical study to guarantee the quality of the data collected.
Urban heat networks are one of the main outlets for this underground mapping. These systems, which help to heat several buildings from a common source, could soon draw their energy directly from the geothermal resources identified thanks to these boxes.
To follow the progress of this underground exploration, residents can consult An interactive map on the Geothermies site. This card indicates the areas already covered by vibrating trucks and those which will be soon.
- These orange and white boxes are seismic sensors that analyze the basement
- They operate in tandem with special trucks that emit waves in the ground
- The objective is to double the use of geothermal energy for heating by 2030
