Flooded UK coalmines could provide low-carbon cheap heat ‘for generations’

Report says proven technology could benefit thousands in poor quality housing and help UK meet carbon reduction targets

Flooded disused coalmines could be a significant source of energy and provide cheap heat to thousands of homes, a new report argues.

Mine water geothermal heat (MWGH) systems use the water in flooded coalmines, which is warmed by natural processes, to supply low-carbon heat. Heat exchangers and pumps recover the heat, which is distributed via district heating networks to homes and buildings, providing low-cost, long-term, stable energy.