Study Confirms Feasibility of Mine Water Heat in UK Coalfields

The Mining Remediation Authority has published a study demonstrating the technical feasibility and cost-effectiveness of drilling into abandoned coal mines for mine water heat schemes in the UK.

• The study analyzed 564 boreholes across Great Britain, finding an 87% success rate for boreholes meeting their intended purpose and over 75% success in reaching targeted mine voids, with deeper boreholes (>300m) achieving 97% success.
• This research supports the scaling of mine water heat networks as a reliable, low-carbon energy source, complementing efforts by UK Geoenergy Observatories to enhance geological understanding.

This evidence base reduces perceived risks and encourages investment in mine water heat, advancing the UK’s clean energy transition and sustainable development in former coalfield communities.