Recent research conducted by the Durham Energy Institute (DEI) has found that the UK could potentially utilize underground heat to provide sustainable and carbon-neutral heating and cooling for large areas of the country. The study highlights the opportunity to diversify and strengthen the UK’s heat supply, as well as bringing economic growth to regions across the country. Commissioned by Kieran Mullan, Member of Parliament for Crewe and Nantwich, the research builds upon an earlier study by the DEI that recognized geothermal heat as a source of ultra-low carbon and secure energy.
The Potential for Sustainable Geothermal Energy
The research identifies the potential to exploit sustainable geothermal energy to displace gas usage in the UK, improving energy security and reducing carbon emissions. The study assessed and ranked the geothermal potential of individual council areas in the UK, demonstrating that many of the more populated areas of the country also have high geothermal potential. The findings from the research suggest that investment is needed to understand the UK’s deep subsurface and reduce uncertainty for future geothermal exploration and developments.
Opportunities to Level Up Through Deep Geothermal Heat & Energy on the Way to Net Zero
The report from the research, entitled “Dig Deep Opportunities To Level Up Through Deep Geothermal Heat & Energy On The Way To Net Zero,” identifies specific localities where the opportunity for deep geothermal exploration is greatest. Analysis of the research identifies 45 high potential sites in the UK with the presence of hot water stored in rocks deep underground suitable for deep geothermal plants. The report suggests that deep geothermal heat can be cost-competitive with the Green Gas Support Scheme and Nuclear, and identifies a tariff-based approach as the most effective way to kickstart a UK deep geothermal sector.
The Potential for Job Creation and Economic Growth
The report concludes that with the right support, it is possible that by 2050, the UK could have 360 geothermal plants producing 15,000 GWh annually. The UK Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, welcomed the report, saying it was excellent and would help the Government consider whether there is a bigger role for geothermal energy. The report recognizes the contribution that developing a deep geothermal industry will make to the North Sea transition. The technology and skills set associated with the traditional drilling and geological expertise of the oil and gas sector in the North Sea are transferable to this new industry. This would bring jobs and skills to Redcar and Cleveland, Middlesbrough, Hartlepool, and Northumberland, improving the economic resilience of these communities.
The UK has the potential to harness sustainable geothermal energy to provide carbon-neutral heating and cooling for large areas of the country. The research identifies the opportunity to diversify and strengthen the UK’s heat supply, as well as bringing economic growth to regions across the country. With the right support, the UK could have 360 geothermal plants producing 15,000 GWh annually by 2050, potentially creating job opportunities and improving the economic resilience of local communities.
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