Country Update for the United Kingdom

Abstract

The exploitation of geothermal resources in the UK continues to be minimal. There are no proven high temperature resources and limited development of low and medium enthalpy resources. However, in the reporting period 2010-2015, there has been a significant resurgence of interest in all aspects of geothermal energy in the UK. New geothermal assessments and reports have been produced, and several deep aquifer projects, minewater projects and EGS/HDR projects are at various preliminary stages. Two EGS/HDR projects in Cornwall have sites and planning approval. In terms of real activity "in the ground" a new deep hole has been drilled in the centre of Newcastle, and ground source heat pump installations have continued, albeit at a lower rate of growth than had been anticipated. A direct use, deep coaxial heat exchanger project is underway. "Geothermal" seminars and conferences have been held, and the UK has increasingly participated in EU and international geothermal initiatives. Compared to previous updates, there has been a significant awakening of geothermal interest in Scotland. Over this period there has been increasing recognition both at European and at UK national levels of the importance of delivering secure low carbon sources of heating. To address this, the UK has introduced a novel Renewable Heat Incentive scheme for both domestic and non-domestic applications. This is expected to stimulate activity both with deep geothermal heat projects and in the GSHP sector.