SSE Energy Solutions exploring feasibility of geothermal heat for university

The company is coordinating a programme to drill test boreholes at two different locations on campus and is carrying out tests throughout the process to validate the feasibility of a scheme that will use ground source heat pumps to provide sustainable heat.

If these tests prove successful, sub-surface ground water with all-year-round consistent temperature could supply two ground source heat pump energy centres for the University’s existing heat network and new developments on campus.

In a statement, Jody Pittaway, sector director for Heat Networks, SSE Energy Solutions said: “These initial tests are a first step on the road to heat decarbonisation. They will give the University essential information to facilitate the energy centre design and help to deliver the University’s 2030 decarbonisation goals.”

The project involves tapping into the earth's natural thermal energy at depths of up to 350m. As part of the study, SSE Energy Solutions is working with Warwick University to establish the best low-carbon solution, through technology selection and a phased, modular approach.