Ambitions for UK geothermal sector launched in Cornwall
Cornwall is looking to lead the way on developing the UK Geothermal sector following the recent launch of a new proposal which aims to build on the innovations made in the US that have revolutionised deep geothermal spheres.
The scheme, shaped by Cornwall Trade and Investment, aims to increase the energy outputs from the technology.
Eden Project co-founder Sir Tim Smit with Eden Geothermal Ltd CEO Gus Grand, at the well head. Image: APEX
‘UK policy is focused on nuclear power providing almost all of our clean baseload (24/7) power, but this proposal for UK Geothermal presents an opportunity for an alternative approach,’ says Piers Guy, Clean Energy Sector Lead, Cornwall and Isles of Scilly Economic Forum.
‘The hot rocks beneath our feet can also provide round-the-clock power, cost competitive with nuclear, as well as heat for homes and businesses.’
‘This localised, scalable solution can provide welcomed skilled jobs and onsite heat and power for homes and businesses. It also has the potential to provide flexibility to support the local grid and energy system.’
Supporters explain geothermal energy is beneficial providing both renewable power and heat – and can also be combined with the extraction of lithium.
They add it can generate more than 2 GW power at 4.5km which would supply around six million homes and that geothermal power can deliver consistent baseload power, unlike wind and solar, which are only operational in the right conditions.
It’s envisaged that it’ll make a potentially significant contributor to for the UK’s future energy needs. The UK’s demand for power is only set to increase, with the growing need for AI and datacentres.
‘Since 2023 the Eden Project has been heating its Biomes, Growing Point plant nursery and education centre, and offices with heat sourced from geothermal energy,’ says Gus Grand, CEO of Eden Geothermal.
‘Our 5.3km well was the first deep geothermal well to come online in the UK since 1986. The opportunities are real, and the impressive advancements made in the US increase its commercial viability.”
How it works: Eden Geothermal
A proposal for a UK FORGE Programme was launched last month - FORGE stands for Frontier Observatory for Research in Geothermal Energy.
It’s received support from MPs Perran Moon, Jayne Kirkham and Noah Law alongside individuals from across industry.
From left : Cllr Leigh Frost, Jayne Kirkham MP, Perran Moon MP, Noah Law MP, Gus Grand, Piers Guy in a geothermal heated greenhouse at Eden’s Growing Point plant nursery. Image: Katie Sandow.
‘Geothermal could provide high quality local jobs and help meet the rising energy needs, and I’m delighted to be part of launching this new proposal and increasing awareness of its potential to make a difference.’
The programme aims to pull together industry, buyers and government to shape a full business case for investment into the sector and harness the potential of geothermal energy across the UK.
‘Cornwall’s heritage in working underground has shaped the Cornish nation and the renewed need for critical minerals and mining is bringing these industries back,’ says Cllr Leigh Frost, Leader of Cornwall Council.
‘The incredible natural capital beneath us also allows us access to geothermal energy. Cornwall has the ability to contribute meaningfully to the UK’s growing demand for energy in a responsible way that brings value to our communities and I hope the opportunities for a growing UK Geothermal industry are realised.’
Cornwall is home to the UK’s most advanced deep geothermal projects and both the South West and North East of England have significant geothermal potential.
UK Geothermal projects have stalled in the past due to high costs, long drilling times and modest outputs – it took around 100 days to drill 3.5km at the Eden Geothermal site and United Downs.
But the significant innovations made in the US increase the viability to harnessing UK Geothermal – this year FERVO, a US geothermal company drilled to 4.8km in just 16 days.