The population of Haute-Sorne is satisfied and rooted in the community, but against geothermal energy.

Life in the municipality of Haute-Sorne
According to a large proportion of the population, the municipality of Haute-Sorne offers good living conditions. As far as the future of Haute-Sorne is concerned, the population is divided between optimists and those who expect both positive and negative developments. The inhabitants are more optimistic about their own future, but more subdued about society as a whole.

Municipal merger
Overall, half of residents view the municipal merger favourably, while a third view it negatively. Positive effects of the merger were attested for the political relevance of the municipality at cantonal and national level, for economic development and for private and public transport. From the perspective of a relative majority of the population, the merger had a negative impact on waste management, finances and taxes.

Energy and water
The majority of Haute-Sorne residents are in favour of the Energy Strategy 2050 and see solar, hydro and wind energy as having the greatest potential to guarantee the supply of electricity. In the municipality of Haute-Sorne, as in Switzerland as a whole, the security of electricity supply is considered to be the most important factor, followed by affordability and, in last place, climate neutrality. In Haute-Sorne, affordability has slightly more weight at the expense of security of supply. Almost half of the population is interested in the municipal loan for solar installations. The limitation of night-time lighting to save energy is supported by a large majority. The water price is considered reasonable by almost half of the residents and the planned water distribution with neighbouring regions is supported by a large majority.

Geothermal energy
The geothermal energy project in Glovelier enjoys an almost universal level of awareness in the municipality, with the pilot project being the best known due to the debate about risks and dangers (in particular the earthquake risk) and the lack of consultation with the population. This is also reflected in the largely majority and consolidated rejection of the project. Only a minority state that there is a need for additional information. This is more of an administrative nature and should be neutral and scientifically sound. There is also a need to explain why the population was not consulted.

Haute-Sorne from the perspective of young people
The vast majority of young people themselves consider the situation in Haute-Sorne to be unattractive, but an almost equal majority can imagine staying in the municipality or returning after a long absence. People who might leave Haute-Sorne could be persuaded to stay or return by more employment opportunities, lower taxes and housing costs and a more attractive environment.

Here you can find the final report in French.