Talking New Energy: Can geothermal heat storage ease pressure on heat networks and the grid?

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In this episode, we speak to experts from Leeds City Council, the University of Leeds and Star Refrigeration about the GeoGrid innovation project. Together, they explore how geothermal heat storage could transform heat networks by storing low-cost, low-carbon heat underground for months at a time. They discuss how seasonal heat storage could reduce electricity demand at peak times, lower operating costs, improve energy security and help scale heat networks as the UK electrifies heat. 

We discuss:

• How geothermal heat storage can make heat networks more efficient, flexible and affordable by storing energy when electricity is cheapest.
• Why seasonal heat storage could reduce peak electricity demand, unlock flexibility revenues and create billions of pounds of value for the wider energy system.
• What needs to happen next, from demonstration projects and regulation to long-term market incentives, to make geothermal heat storage commercially viable at scale.

What’s one thing you would like listeners to take away from this?

• Geothermal heat storage isn't just another heat technology. It has the potential to make heat networks cheaper to run, reduce pressure on the electricity grid and become a vital form of long-duration energy storage, provided the right commercial and regulatory frameworks are put in place.