Experts champion geothermal energy as key to cheaper, more stable future

Academics have highlighted how geothermal energy can help break the link between fossil fuels and electricity prices, for a more stable and cost-effective future.

In an article for the Yorkshire Post, Professor Fleur Loveridge of the School of Civil Engineering and Dr David Barns from the School of Earth and Environment explain how the UK’s energy prices are tied to volatile fossil fuel markets, despite the expansion of renewable energy sources.  

Despite the country’s success in deploying wind and solar power, its pricing system means that if even a small fraction of electricity comes from expensive gas, consumers pay the higher price.

To lower bills and enhance energy security, they argue that the UK must transition to a more flexible system – one that can store and distribute energy more efficiently. 

One promising solution is geothermal energy, which the University’s Geosolutions Leeds team is actively researching.

Its latest demonstrator project uses groundwater beneath the campus to provide renewable heat, significantly reducing the need for gas.  

Geothermal energy also enables energy storage, allowing excess electricity to be used later, reducing strain on the grid and further lowering costs. By investing in such innovations, Professor Loveridge and Dr Barns believe the UK can move towards a more resilient and affordable energy system. 

Read the full article on the Yorkshire Post. 

Top image by Ben Craven, School of Earth and Environment