Flood water from a disused mine is being used as a renewable source of heating for the first time in Wales. The business near Ammanford, Carmarthenshire, has started pumping water from a nearby mine water treatment site to heat its warehouse. The Mining Remediation Authority, formerly the Coal Authority, said it continued to help develop similar projects across south and north-east Wales and hoped Wales could be at the "forefront" of the approach, but asimilar heat scheme was scrapped by Bridgend council in 2021due to the concern of rising costs. The Welsh government said it recognised the "significant role mine water heat can play in our journey to net zero". About 25 litres of water is pumped from the former Lindsay pit every day in order to be cleaned and released into natural waterways. Flood water which has filled old mines can reach up 20C (68F), depending on the depth. Business owner Nick Salini, who makes heat pumps, said he recognised the potential of the mine water a long time ago. "We've installed a ground source heat pump that takes the water from the surface mine water treatment plant which runs at a constant 14C to 15C," he said. "We take that warm water to a heat pump, compress it to a useable temperature for heating the building and this will heat the building all year around. "This system is specifically designed for this building. It's a 35 kilowatt system which could heat up to 10 new-build properties and it is scalable so it could provide heating for hundreds of homes by absorbing the available energy from the ground." The Welsh government published a mine water heat opportunity map last year to highlight the parts of Wales' former coalfields where similar schemes might be viable. Innovate UK, funded by the UK government to help businesses grow, provided the money for the project in Carmarthenshire but getting the right funding for larger projects remains a challenge. There are a growing number of mine water heat projects in England. The first to be completed in Gateshead serves more than 600 homes, businesses and an arts centre. Gareth Farr, head of heat and by-product innovation at the Mining Remediation Authority, said: "Everyone in Wales has been looking at what we've delivered in the north east of England but there's no reason why Wales can't be at the forefront of this as well. "We've got a quarter of Wales' population living on the coalfield so the demand is there and we want to link our proud industrial heritage to this new green future." It took two weeks to lay the pipework for the small project near Ammanford but the developers said the long-term benefits outweigh the short-term disruption. "Across Great Britain, we're already in the process of developing and delivering new schemes, so we really hope this scheme will be a springboard to encourage others and provide confidence so they can progress the ideas we've been working on with them," Mr Farr added. The Welsh government said: "We do not have a dedicated heat network fund, however they could be in scope with local energy funding. "Applicants would need to demonstrate how their idea fits with local area energy plans and that they are the optimum use of funds, returning the biggest impact for the investment both in terms of decarbonisation and wider benefit. "Ynni Cymru has recently launched a £10m capital fund for smart local energy systems to help develop novel energy projects and maximise local benefits; we would encourage developers to explore this potential route."
Coal mine flood water used in first heating scheme
TruthLens AI Suggested Headline:
"Wales Utilizes Mine Flood Water as Renewable Heating Source"
Bbc News
7.9
TruthLens AI Summary
In a pioneering initiative, flood water from a disused mine is being harnessed as a renewable heating source for the first time in Wales, specifically at a business near Ammanford in Carmarthenshire. The Mining Remediation Authority, formerly known as the Coal Authority, has been instrumental in supporting the development of similar renewable energy projects throughout south and north-east Wales. While the Welsh government acknowledges the potential of mine water heat in contributing to net-zero goals, previous attempts, such as a similar scheme proposed by Bridgend council in 2021, faced setbacks due to concerns over rising costs. The project involves pumping approximately 25 liters of mine water daily from the former Lindsay pit, where water can reach temperatures up to 20°C, depending on depth. Business owner Nick Salini has implemented a ground source heat pump system that utilizes this warm water, allowing for efficient heating of the warehouse year-round. The system is designed to be scalable, with the potential to heat up to 10 new-build properties, and could eventually provide heating for hundreds of homes by tapping into the abundant geothermal energy available from the ground.
The Welsh government has taken proactive steps by publishing a mine water heat opportunity map, which identifies areas in Wales' former coalfields that could support similar renewable heating schemes. Despite a growing number of mine water heat projects in England, including one in Gateshead that serves over 600 homes and businesses, challenges remain in securing adequate funding for larger initiatives in Wales. Gareth Farr, head of heat and by-product innovation at the Mining Remediation Authority, expressed optimism that Wales could lead in this innovative approach, given that a significant portion of its population resides in coalfield areas. The initial project near Ammanford took two weeks to install the necessary pipework, and developers believe the long-term advantages will outweigh any short-term disruptions. The Welsh government is exploring local energy funding opportunities to support new heat network projects, emphasizing the need for applicants to align their proposals with local energy plans to maximize impact and benefits for decarbonization efforts.
TruthLens AI Analysis
The article highlights an innovative approach to renewable energy in Wales, utilizing flood water from a disused coal mine for heating purposes. This initiative reflects a broader trend towards sustainability and the exploration of alternative energy sources, especially in regions historically dependent on coal mining.
Potential Motivations Behind the Publication
The intent behind sharing this news could be to promote awareness and acceptance of renewable energy initiatives within local communities. By showcasing a successful project, stakeholders may aim to encourage similar developments in other areas, fostering a positive narrative around transitioning from traditional energy sources to more sustainable options.
Community Perception and Public Sentiment
The article may seek to create a sense of optimism and engagement within the community regarding environmental sustainability. It highlights the role of local businesses in pioneering green technologies, which could inspire public support for further investments in renewable energy projects.
Information Omission or Concealment
While the article is largely informative, it may downplay challenges related to funding and the feasibility of scaling similar projects. The mention of a previous heat scheme being scrapped due to rising costs suggests potential issues that are not fully explored in the article. This could lead to a perception that the transition to renewable energy is smoother than it may actually be.
Trustworthiness of the Information
The news appears credible, as it cites specific data regarding the project, including daily water pumping rates and the technical specifications of the heating system. Moreover, it references established organizations like the Mining Remediation Authority and Innovate UK, which adds to its credibility.
Societal Implications and Economic Impact
This initiative could impact local economies by creating new jobs in renewable energy sectors and encouraging investment in green technologies. Politically, it may influence governmental policies aimed at achieving net-zero emissions, aligning with broader climate goals.
Target Audience and Community Support
The article is likely to resonate with environmentally conscious communities, local business owners, and policymakers focused on sustainability. It aims to engage individuals interested in green technology and energy efficiency, potentially fostering a supportive community around these initiatives.
Market and Economic Considerations
The introduction of renewable energy projects like this one could influence stock prices of companies involved in green technology and renewable energy solutions. Investors may view such developments favorably, contributing to a broader shift in market dynamics towards sustainability.
Global Context and Relevance
In a world increasingly focused on climate change, this news aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and transition to renewable energy. The timing is significant, as many countries are seeking innovative solutions to combat environmental challenges.
Artificial Intelligence Involvement
While the article's writing style does not overtly suggest the use of AI, it is possible that AI tools may have assisted in data analysis or drafting. However, the human touch in the narrative and specific technical details indicates a strong editorial influence rather than complete reliance on AI.
Manipulative Aspects of the Article
While the article promotes a positive narrative about renewable energy, it could be viewed as somewhat manipulative if it glosses over the economic challenges and funding difficulties faced by similar projects. The language used emphasizes success and innovation, which may not fully capture the complexities involved in transitioning to renewable energy.
The overall analysis indicates that the article is largely trustworthy, presenting factual information while potentially underplaying some challenges associated with renewable energy initiatives.