Work will be taking place in several locations on campus to test the potential for using geothermal heat.
Taking place between 29 January and 31 May 2024, this important project is part of our Net Zero Delivery Plan and will explore whether the heat beneath our feet can contribute to reducing carbon emissions both on campus and in the wider city region. The work will test the potential for using geothermal heat to help provide a clean, fossil free heating system on campus.
The works involve drilling eight geothermal boreholes at locations across campus, using drilling rigs across campus before inserting equipment to gather information on the Geothermal energy capacity and bringing samples from below ground to the surface for analysis.
Whilst the drilling is taking place, there will be some noise, although this is carefully controlled through use of the best and most up-to-date equipment.
The site locations include:
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near to the Henry Price hall of residence
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behind the Engineering building
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near to the Maurice Keyworth building
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near to Charles Morris Hall.
Investigation works located near residences will not begin prior to 10am.
Traffic to each site location will include some lorries moving material to and from the site. At each site, an area will be fenced off for the works to be carried out which may restrict access or local parking.
More information about exact locations, dates and timings are available on the Climate Hub. Please check local disruption notices for updates.
"Testing new solutions is a crucial part of our approach to delivering net zero, and geothermal heat can provide a more efficient form of heating as we move our campus towards delivering net zero. It also supports a growing area of research that can be applied locally and globally.
"This project is an excellent example of how the University is working together to explore solutions for tackling the climate crisis."
James Dixon Gough, Head of Net Zero at the University of Leeds
Accessing help and support
While we are doing our utmost to minimise disruptions, if you are adversely affected by the drilling, there are a few ways to seek support or raise concerns.
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Contact the Staff Counselling and Psychological Support Service for free, confidential and professional support with any challenges.
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Speak to your line manager about an Occupational Health Referral if the drilling work is affecting your ability to work.
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You can also visit our University cafes for a different space to work.
