Flooded former coal mines in South Gloucestershire will be used to heat thousands of homes and businesses in a new plan to cut carbon emissions. The plan forms one part of a £10 million boost to climate projects across the West of England region.
Old coal mines naturally flood with water which is heated by geothermal processes, and the water can then be piped above ground for heating. This is a climate-friendly alternative to using traditional gas boilers, which burn fossil fuels and emit carbon emissions and other greenhouse gases.
The plan was welcomed by West of England metro mayor Dan Norris, who said it was “ironic” that coal mines could be one solution to climate change. The plan will be funded by Mr Norris’s green recovery fund, which is now increasing from £50 million to £60 million.
