Geothermal power in the United Kingdom

The United Kingdom generates a small amount of geothermal power and uses a little geothermal heat.

The potential for exploiting geothermal energy in the United Kingdom on a commercial basis was initially examined by the Department of Energy in the wake of the 1973 oil crisis. Several regions of the country were identified, but interest in developing them was lost as petroleum prices fell. Although the UK is not actively volcanic, a large heat resource is potentially available via shallow geothermal ground source heat pumps, shallow aquifers and deep saline aquifers in the mesozoic basins of the UK. Geothermal energy is plentiful beneath the UK, although it is not readily accessible currently except in specific locations.

Geothermal energy in the United Kingdom has significant potential. The country's geothermal resources could theoretically meet all of its heating demand for the next century. Recent developments, particularly in Cornwall such as the Eden Project and the Langarth Garden Village, include geothermal heating plants and power projects, with plans to generate 12 MW of electricity by 2027. However, challenges such as lack of government support, financial incentives, and a clear regulatory framework hinder broader adoption. With better policy, the UK could establish up to 360 plants by 2050, reducing carbon emissions and providing jobs.

History

Ancient legend credited the early Celtic kings with the discovery of the thermal springs at the Roman Baths in Aquae Sulis (modern city of Bath) which then fell into disrepair during the Dark Ages and were not rediscovered until the 18th century, along with the springs at Buxton in the Peak District.