The United Downs geothermal site in Cornwall, developed by Geothermal Engineering Ltd (GEL), is being switched on as the UK’s first deep geothermal power plant, producing electricity from underground heat and lithium for batteries.

Geothermal energy is expanding globally, with the United Downs plant generating about 3 megawatts of electricity and producing lithium for batteries, signaling a broader revival driven by advanced well technologies and rising demand from data centers.

Experts caution about earthquakes and groundwater contamination in past projects, but argue that with safeguards and monitoring these risks can be managed.

The project cost roughly £50 million, funded by private investors with £15 million from the European Development Fund, and its energy is sold to Octopus Energy to supply up to 10,000 homes.

Advances in enhanced geothermal systems (EGS), using oil-and-gas fracturing techniques to access deeper, hotter reservoirs, are cutting drilling times and costs, with projects like Fervo Energy pursuing tens of megawatts powered by data centers.

The plant uses super-heated water from deep underground to drive turbines, generating enough power for about 10,000 homes and marking the first domestic lithium supply in the UK from geothermal brines.

Economically, enhanced geothermal could reach under $80 per megawatt-hour by 2027 in the US, making it competitive with solar, wind and gas, with federal tax incentives remaining available.

Experts stress the need for a supportive government policy framework to unlock investment and confidence in geothermal development.

Geothermal offers continuous, low-emission power with a shorter build time and a smaller environmental footprint than nuclear or large hydro, helping to offset variability in wind and solar.

Industry figures describe a renaissance in geothermal as grids seek reliable 24/7 renewable power to complement other clean sources.

Growth in geothermal is supported by global investment trends, including interest from data-center operators seeking reliable geothermal energy for large power needs.

The project is framed as a step toward greater UK energy independence in critical minerals and low-carbon power, with government emphasis on energy innovation.