Earth's heat to produce electricity for homes in UK clean energy first
BBC World
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The United Downs power plant in Cornwall has become a groundbreaking milestone in the UK's renewable energy landscape, marking the country's first geothermal electricity generation. This innovative project harnesses heat from deep within the Earth to generate clean energy, capable of powering up to 10,000 homes. Additionally, it will produce lithium—a critical mineral essential for green technologies—making it a dual-purpose resource for both energy and industry. The plant represents over two decades of development by Geothermal Engineering Ltd (GEL), overcoming significant technical and financial challenges to bring this cutting-edge technology to fruition.
Geothermal energy works by drilling deep into the Earth's surface, where heat from underground rocks heats water to high temperatures. This super-heated water drives turbines to generate electricity. The UK's geology, particularly the granite rock found in Cornwall, is ideal for such projects as it efficiently stores and conducts heat. However, the process is technically complex and costly, with drilling reaching depths of several miles required to access sufficiently hot water. These factors have made similar projects challenging to replicate elsewhere in the UK.
The United Downs plant not only provides a reliable source of renewable energy but also offers stability compared to intermittent sources like wind and solar. This "always-on" power is a game-changer for the UK's energy mix, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting the transition to net-zero emissions. The project has secured funding from private investors and EU grants, totaling £50
Verticals
worldpolitics
Originally published on BBC World on 2/26/2026