The report provides an evidence-based assessment of the opportunities and makes recommendations for building the deep geothermal sector in the UK. The report was funded by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero and the North East and Yorkshire Net Zero Hub.

"Geothermal energy provides a unique opportunity to deliver a low-carbon energy source to many areas of the UK, specifically for heating," Dr Corinna Abesser, BGS Director of Policy and lead author of the report, said. "This White Paper highlights opportunities where deep geothermal energy could help the UK meet its net zero objectives, increase energy supply security, deliver economic benefits and create the green jobs of the future to improve our communities."

Geothermal energy provides a unique opportunity to deliver a low-carbon energy source to many areas of the UK

The current high costs of drilling restrict the use of geothermal energy to areas with certain geological settings. As technologies improve and new extraction methods are developed, more areas should become economically viable for geothermal exploitation.

Most of the UK's onshore deep geothermal potential is found in deeply buried (deeper than 500m) limestones and sandstones in sedimentary basins. Groundwater within these rocks may reach temperatures of more than 100C but more data from deep wells and from operational geothermal projects is needed to estimate the economically usable portion of the energy. In some areas, hot granites provide a potential source for geothermal power.

There are currently two deep geothermal projects in development or operation in Cornwall for provision of heat and power, including the Eden Geothermal project, and three other UK sites are currently using geothermal water from springs or shallower wells for heat. 

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