Star Energy has signed a Memorandum of Understanding with UK heat network operator Bring Energy to explore the further integration of geothermal energy into Southampton’s city-centre heat network.
The Southampton Geothermal Heating Company, operated by Bring Energy, delivers heat, chilled water and power to the city. Star Energy Group previously focused on oil and gas extraction, but says in its website that “we are now using our existing and highly complementary skill set to develop and build a geothermal business of scale, as we transition to a renewable future”.
Under the MoU, Star Energy will leverage its geothermal expertise to conduct a feasibility study assessing the potential for supplying geothermal heat to the existing network. The partnership will also explore the development of a new geothermal-supplied heat network to serve the northern part of the city.
Councillor John Savage, Cabinet Member Green City and Net Zero at Southampton City Council, said: “We are keen to see the decarbonisation of heat and support the assessment of further potential low carbon geothermal heat within the city, aligning perfectly with our commitment to achieving our net zero ambitions.”
Ross Glover, Star Energy chief executive, said, “By combining Star Energy’s geothermal expertise with Bring Energy’s operational capabilities, we aim to demonstrate the real potential of geothermal energy in decarbonising urban heat networks. Our feasibility study will be the first step in unlocking a sustainable, long-term heat source for Southampton, supporting the city’s net zero ambitions and enhancing energy security for the future.”
Richard Burrell, Executive Chairman of Bring Energy, said: “Partnering with Star Energy allows us to explore how geothermal can integrate into our existing network, providing a sustainable and resilient heat source for Southampton. We look forward to working together on this feasibility study and the potential expansion of low-carbon heating solutions for the city.”