Heat is the biggest end use of energy in the UK - most of it is used for heating homes and providing hot water. This research project examined the feasibility of capturing large quantities of waste heat from power stations and industrial processes and then storing it underground for later use in homes and offices. It investigated the cost effectiveness and practicalities of storing large quantities of heat for long periods of time to meet a significant proportion of the UK’s winter heat demand. It evaluated the practical limits for this type of storage, the technology development needs and where in the country large-scale heat storage could be most effectively exploited. International consulting engineers Buro Happold completed the research project in 2011.
This project is to investigate the cost effectiveness and practicalities of storing very large amounts of heat for long periods in UK geological formations such as saline aquifers. Many of these formations are accessible to populated areas and could be used to support district heating schemes, but there are many uncertainties regarding the effectiveness, environmental impact and ultimate capacity of such systems in the UK.
This project is to investigate the cost effectiveness and practicalities of storing very large amounts of heat for long periods in UK geological formations such as saline aquifers. Many of these formations are accessible to populated areas and could be used to support district heating schemes, but there are many uncertainties regarding the effectiveness, environmental impact and ultimate capacity of such systems in the UK.