A new inquiry to look at the role geothermal technologies can play in the UK’s journey towards meeting its net zero goal has been launched. MPs on the Environmental Audit Committee (EAC) will examine any potential challenges and what support, if any, the government should offer to accelerate deployment of the technologies – and is seeking views on it. The technologies available to harness the energy source include mine energy systems, which can extract water from disused mines to provide heat on a large scale and enhanced geothermal systems, which take heat from radioactive decays in granite deposits deep underground to provide energy. There are currently no UK mine water heating systems in operation – though a number are in development – and no enhanced geothermal systems are currently in operation.
Future Net Zero 17th June 2022 read more »