GeoGrid, a project devised to explore the benefits and applications of geothermal energy within the UK, has been awarded £3.7mn in funding through the Ofgem Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) to enhance energy efficiency and decarbonisation throughout the country.
Geosolutions Leeds will collaborate with Northern Powergrid, LCP Delta, E. ON Next, Leeds City Council and Star Refrigeration on the project in a bid to overcome the challenges presented by geothermal development and the energy transition, such as rising electricity demand, increasing costs and inefficiencies in the renewable sector.
Addressing demands
The GeoGrid project will use data from the University of Leeds’ Geothermal Campus living lab to further understand how long-term thermal energy storage can improve the UK energy system’s efficiency and sustainability as well as understand how the energy can be implemented on a bigger scale as a solution to the issues presented by the energy transition.
By integrating geothermal storage into the energy system, GeoGrid aims to lower network connection costs, reduce costly reinforcement and enhance grid resilience. The project will also aid in demonstrating how the interaction of geothermal systems with energy markets can strengthen the business case for district heating.
Dr Emma Bramham, Lecturer in Applied Geophysics and Structural Geology and GeoGrid Project Lead for the University of Leeds, said, “This innovative collaboration will use the University’s unique geothermal living lab facilities to explore new ways of improving energy system efficiency and sustainability.
“The ability to store excess renewable energy beneath the city’s streets will help make best use of green electricity resources and speed up the UK’s transition to net zero.”