Newcastle explores geothermal heat through 2000m hole

Engineers are set to start drilling a hole deep below Newcastle in the search for a renewable energy source.

The Newcastle and Durham Universities team plans to sink a hole 6,562ft (2,000m) below the planned Science Central site, in the city centre.

Scientists hope the £900,000 project will result in water at a temperature of about 80C (176F) being pumped out.

The plan is the water could be used to heat the site and surrounding city centre buildings.

Alison Freeman spoke to Professor Paul Younger, from Newcastle University, who is in charge of the project.

  • UK