Guest: Hazel Starmer-Jones, Former Development Manager at Geothermal Engineering Limited (GEL)
This episode explores the past, present and future of geothermal energy through an on-site visit to the UK’s first commercial geothermal energy project.
Nate interviews Hazel Starmer-Jones former development manager at GEL about their geothermal project at the United Downs site in Cornwall. They discuss the science behind geothermal, the geological conditions that make Cornwall ripe for subsurface power, and the multi-decade journey GEL has been on to establish the UK's first geothermal power plant.
Hazel explains the advantages of geothermal as a baseload power source, the site's discovery of lithium-rich fluids, and the potential for geothermal heating and lithium extraction. They also cover the technical challenges of deep drilling, policy barriers that have hindered development, strategies for community engagement, and workforce development needs. Finally, Hazel provides insights into the future expansion of geothermal across the UK.
Key Topics:
How geothermal energy works
Cornwall's geological conditions for geothermal
History of geothermal efforts in UK/Cornwall
Overcoming economic barriers to geothermal
Advantages of geothermal power
Geothermal heating applications
Lithium discovery in geothermal fluids
Deep drilling challenges
Policy incentives and regulatory hurdles
Managing seismic risks
Community engagement strategies
Green workforce development needs
Future UK geothermal potential
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