THE WELSH GOVERNMENT has today announced the release of a comprehensive “Mine Water Heat Opportunity Map,” detailing the potential for using disused coal mines across Wales as a source of renewable energy. The map, alongside several technical reports, has been made public by Ken Skates, the Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Transport and North Wales.
The map illustrates how the extensive network of historical coal mines, once the backbone of Wales’s industrial landscape, could now serve as a renewable, low-carbon source of heating. With heating accounting for 50% of energy use in Wales, the potential of mine water heat is seen as a significant opportunity to enhance the sustainability of communities located within coalfield regions.
Mr Skates highlighted the potential environmental benefits, stating, “Mine water heat could also play a part in our necessary efforts to tackle climate change and support decarbonisation.” He emphasised that this initiative could contribute to the Welsh Government’s broader goals of reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable economic growth.
The Coal Authority was commissioned by the Welsh Government to assess the feasibility of this initiative. Their work involved evaluating all known coal mine workings in Wales, focusing on identifying those that might now contain water warmed by natural geological processes. The resulting map categorises the mine workings into three groups: “Good,” “Possible,” and “Challenging” opportunities for developing mine water heat projects.
Additionally, the map includes locations where mine water is already being discharged through controlled gravity-driven mechanisms and mine water treatment schemes. These sites are considered particularly promising for cost-effective heating solutions.
The Welsh Government has also prepared technical reports for 11 local authorities, highlighting specific opportunities within their areas. These reports, now available on the Welsh Government’s website and DataMapWales, are designed to provide developers with accessible information and data to explore the potential of mine heat resources.
The release of these documents is part of a broader strategy that includes the upcoming publication of further information on the Welsh Government’s Heat Strategy, Local Area Energy Plans, and Net Zero Wales Carbon Budgets. This initiative underscores the government’s commitment to clear policy direction and the facilitation of informed decision-making in the pursuit of decarbonisation and sustainable economic growth.
Mr Skates concluded by offering to address any further questions or provide additional statements to the Senedd upon its return from recess, ensuring that members remain informed of the government’s ongoing efforts in this area.
