The emergence of mine water heat in the UK is the result of many years of collaborative efforts between researchers, local authorities, industry and public bodies. Among those who have played an important role in advancing the sector is Charlotte Adams, CEO of the National Geothermal Centre, whose early work helped shape the field.
A recent study by the Mining Remediation Authority has strengthened confidence in mine water heat as a reliable, low-carbon energy source for former coalfield communities. Analysing 564 boreholes across Great Britain, the research found an 87 per cent success rate in boreholes fulfilling their intended functions, including accessing heat from abandoned coal mines. This robust evidence paves the way for scaling up mine water heat networks, contributing to the UK’s green energy transition.
Charlotte first recognised the potential of mine water as a heat source during her PhD research on mine remediation, where she noticed that water in flooded coal mines remained warm even in winter. This observation led her to investigate the possibilities in coalfields across Fife and northeast England during the 2000s. Over a decade ago, she contributed early-stage evaluations for councils and industry stakeholders, helping to build the foundation for mine water heat projects in the UK.
In 2017, Charlotte was invited by the Dutch Ministry of Energy to visit Heerlen’s operational mine water heating system, one of the world’s first large-scale examples. This experience deepened her understanding of the technology’s potential and informed subsequent developments back home.
Joining the Coal Authority in 2020, Charlotte supported the delivery of the UK’s first operational mine water schemes, including the Gateshead project launched in 2022. Her role has been instrumental in promoting the feasibility and benefits of mine water heat to policymakers, developers, and local communities.
The latest Mining Remediation Authority study further reinforces this growing momentum, demonstrating that with careful planning and expertise, drilling into former coal mines is a manageable risk. Success rates of over 75 per cent for hitting targeted mine voids, and 97 per cent for deeper boreholes, underline the technical viability of mine water heat networks.
As the UK continues to pursue clean, secure and locally sourced energy solutions, the combined efforts of dedicated professionals like Charlotte Adams, researchers, and public bodies are unlocking new opportunities beneath the country’s former coalfields. Together, they are helping to transform an innovative concept into a scalable, practical solution that can decarbonise heat, reduce energy bills and support community regeneration.
