Unearth the Heat Beneath our Feet – Geothermal Energy Potential for NI

The Earth contains vast amounts of natural energy in the form of heat. Known as geothermal, this energy mostly travels up from the very hot, deep parts of the Earth’s core to the cooler surface. Some heat is also generated in the rocks of the Earth’s crust, and nearer the surface, it also stores warmth from the sun. Whether accessed at shallow depth or several kilometres below, geothermal energy in its various forms is being harnessed by many countries across the world as a valuable low carbon, renewable source of heat.

In Northern Ireland, we are fortunate to have favourable geology, with huge untapped potential for useful geothermal energy right beneath our feet. Despite this, potential geothermal energy is currently underutilised within Northern Ireland.

The GeoEnergy NI project is demonstrating the potential for geothermal energy across the region, allowing us to further explore the possibilities of harnessing this renewable energy source and in turn to “reduce our reliance on fossil fuels whilst becoming more self-sufficient” as outlined in the Northern Ireland Energy Strategy: Path to Net Zero Energy.

Delivered by the Department for the Economy, with scientific support from the Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, the project is conducting geothermal feasibility studies at two locations; a shallow geothermal feasibility study on the Stormont Estate and a deep one around CAFRE’s Greenmount Campus in Co. Antrim.

To help schools, families, businesses, and community groups discover the power and potential of geothermal energy as a renewable energy source, GeoEnergy NI has developed a range of activities, including interactive experiences such as Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality programmes, educational resources and geothermal experiments.

Join in the Penthouse Suite at the Europa Hotel for the Re[act] Festival on the 14^{th of} November to try them out, find out more about geothermal energy, and ‘unearth the heat beneath your feet’!

Part of the RE[act] Festival 2024>>