The £9m Glasgow Geothermal Energy Research Field Site facility will explore the potential of geothermal energy for the benefit of local communities, as well as offering the opportunity for other areas of innovation and research into the subsurface. It will either be built in the Clyde Gateway area in the east end of Glasgow or Rutherglen in South Lanarkshire
The facility is part of the £31 million UK Geoenergy Observatories project, which aims to establish new centres for research into the subsurface environment and provide opportunities to research how natural processes can control resource availability, and how natural resources can be used responsibly for present and future generations.
Led by The Natural Environment Research Council (NERC) and the British Geological Survey (BGS), the £31m project aims to provide infrastructure for future research opportunities. A second research centre will be established in England.
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The Glasgow site will create an opportunity for research in relation to the geothermal energy potential of the warm waters in the large expanse of disused coal mines under Glasgow.
The proposed field site would consist of a number of boreholes at various depths, which will create the opportunity to research the area’s geology and underground water systems. Measurements would be taken from boreholes, such as temperature, water movement and water chemistry, and the data will be monitored and assessed in the coming years.
Professor John Luddon, Executive Director of the British Geological Survey, said: "This has the potential to be a world-class research site attracting globally leading scientists and engineers, building on Glasgow’s history as a trailblazing city of science. Realising the potential of geothermal energy in Clyde Gateway may create opportunities for the UK to lead the way in providing safe and sustainable energy for former mining communities around the world.
"We are very keen to hear what the community think about this proposed project. Our scientists will be at the event to speak about the project and what this investment could mean for the community. And, of course, they will be there to answer any questions."
Residents can view plans for the facility at the Legacy Hub in Dalmarnock between 2pm - 8pm on Tuesday, 05 September.
(LM/MH)
