Star Energy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding ('MoU') with Bring Energy, the largest operator of UK heat networks, to explore the further integration of geothermal energy into Southampton's city-centre heat network.
The Southampton Geothermal Heating Company ('SGHC') is a pioneering partnership delivering sustainable heat, chilled water, and power to the city. Operated by Bring Energy in collaboration with Southampton City Council, the partnership is committed to decarbonisation of the network.
Under the agreement, Star Energy will leverage its geothermal expertise to conduct a feasibility study assessing the potential for supplying geothermal heat to the existing network. The partnership will also explore the development of a new geothermal-supplied heat network to serve the northern part of the city.
Councillor John Savage, Cabinet Member Green City and Net Zero at Southampton City Council, said:
'We are keen to see the decarbonisation of heat and support the assessment of further potential low carbon geothermal heat within the city, aligning perfectly with our commitment to achieving our net zero ambitions.'
Commenting, Ross Glover, Star Energy CEO, said:
'This agreement is a significant step forward in delivering clean, reliable heat to UK cities, an important aspect of our strategy going forward as we continue to broaden the ways in which we can contribute to securing domestic energy supply. By combining Star Energy's geothermal expertise with Bring Energy's operational capabilities, we aim to demonstrate the real potential of geothermal energy in decarbonising urban heat networks. Our feasibility study will be the first step in unlocking a sustainable, long-term heat source for Southampton, supporting the city's net zero ambitions and enhancing energy security for the future.'
Richard Burrell, Executive Chairman of Bring Energy, said:
'Decarbonising urban heat networks is essential for meeting our net zero commitments, and geothermal energy presents an exciting opportunity to achieve this. Partnering with Star Energy allows us to explore how geothermal can integrate into our existing network, providing a sustainable and resilient heat source for Southampton. We look forward to working together on this feasibility study and the potential expansion of low-carbon heating solutions for the city.'
Source: Star Energy
