PPSL is proud to have played a key role in the installation of pre-insulated mains for the Gateshead Mine Water Scheme, says senior project manager Ashely Shorrock.
Ash believes that this pioneering project exemplifies how innovative engineering, and sustainable thinking can work hand in hand.
As the world shifts toward greener energy solutions, Ash believes that one of the most promising – and often overlooked – opportunities lies beneath our feet: mine water. In this article, he explores how this renewable energy source, hidden in the legacy of our industrial past, is now being used to fuel the low-carbon future of district heating.
Mine water is groundwater that has accumulated in the voids of abandoned or operational mines. Over time, this water absorbs geothermal energy from surrounding rocks, reaching temperatures typically between 10°C and 20°C, depending on the depth and geology. Though once considered a by-product or environmental concern, mine water is now gaining recognition as a powerful source of low-grade, sustainable heat -particularly when paired with heat pump technology and integrated into district heating networks.
Five Benefits of mine water Heating
1. Sustainable, Renewable and Always On
Mine water systems harness naturally replenished geothermal heat. Unlike wind or solar, this energy is available 365 days a year, regardless of the weather. That makes it one of the most reliable forms of renewable heat available today.
2. Reduces Carbon Emissions
When used with electric heat pumps – especially those powered by renewables -mine water heating significantly cuts greenhouse gas emissions. This is a major boost for local authorities and developers aiming to meet net-zero goals.
3. Reclaims Industrial Legacy
Abandoned mines are often a long-term environmental liability. By repurposing them for district heating, we transform these sites into community assets that can spur economic regeneration in post-industrial regions. It creates green jobs, attracts sustainable investment and positions these areas at the forefront of clean energy innovation.
4. Cost-Effective in the Long Run
While upfront investment is required, mine water heating systems offer low operational costs and long-term price stability – especially compared to fossil-fuel-based heating solutions.
5. Scalable and Local
These systems can serve a single neighbourhood or an entire urban district. Because the heat source is local, energy losses from transmission are minimised, boosting overall system efficiency.
Mine water heating isn’t just theoretical – it’s already working. Here are projects that are already proving the enormous potential for mine water to become a mainstream part of the renewable energy mix.
– Gateshead Mine Water Scheme (UK) – PPSL was proud to install the pre-insulated district heating mains for this groundbreaking project, proving its viability in the UK
– Heerlen Mine Water Project (Netherlands) – One of Europe’s first and most successful mine water heating systems, now supplying both heating and cooling to homes and businesses
– Seaham Garden Village (Durham, UK) – Plans are underway to harness heat from the Dawdon mine water treatment site to serve this new low-carbon development
Like any innovative technology, mine water heating faces some hurdles:
– High Capital Costs – Infrastructure, drilling and heat pumps require upfront funding
– Technical Complexity – Understanding mine layouts and hydrogeology is critical
Regulatory Barriers – Environmental and planning permissions can slow progress
But that said, mine water heating perfectly embodies the ethos of a circular economy by repurposing what’s already there to serve new, sustainable goals. It’s a smart, scalable and socially responsible solution to the heating challenge.
At PPSL District Heating, we believe that by investing in the right infrastructure today, we can unlock long-term value for communities tomorrow. The Gateshead scheme is proof: with the right expertise, old mines can help power a greener, fairer energy future.
Want to learn more about how PPSL can support your low-carbon heating projects? Contact us today to explore district heating solutions that work for your community.
