The first borehole is underway at the UK Geoenergy Observatory for Glasgow, allowing scientists to 'see' underground at the world-class geothermal energy research site in the east end of the city.
Marking the beginning of the 15-year research investment, a 7·2-meter high drilling rig broke ground on the site to form the first borehole for the observatory.
Over the next 15 months, the drilling team will create 12 boreholes of various depths, which will enable research into Glasgow's geology, its underground water systems and the potential for heat from the water in the city's disused coal mines. One of the biggest aims of the project is to find out whether there is a long-term sustainable mine water resource that could provide a low-cost, low-carbon heat source for homes and businesses. More information at UK Geoenergy Observatories, BGS.
