Geothermal energy from abandoned coal mines has given a new lease of life and being repurposed to provide zero-carbon energy in various countries in Europe and Canada.

Springhill, Nova Scotia, in Canada, started harnessing heat from dormant coal mines as early as 1989, with one local packaging firm now operating a 100% renewable system throughout the year. The technology also has been used to heat hundreds of properties in Gateshead, England. This initiative is seen as a success and showcases the potential of using old mining tunnels for clean, green energy. The warm water, found in disused coal mines, is a valuable and underused source of clean energy, with geologists estimating that the UK's mine shafts hold significant potential.

The process involves drilling boreholes to bring the warm water to the surface, then using heat pumps and extractors to raise its temperature before distributing it through heating networks. Once the heat is absorbed in buildings, the water can be returned to the mines to be reheated. This method works year-round and is not affected by seasonal changes, making it a reliable and sustainable energy source.

A similar project is underway in Asturias, northern Spain, where flooded coal shafts are used for heating and cooling multiple buildings, including a hospital and a university.

Sources:

https://www.euronews.com/.../flooded-and-forgotten-how...

https://www.cnbc.com/.../abandoned-coal-mines-may-be-gold....

https://www2.groundstability.com/geothermal-energy-from.../