Thesis
How to evaluate heat as a pollutant from underground thermal energy systems : outline environmental impact assessment framework using the Barony Mineshaft, Scotland as a case study
- Creator
- Rights statement
- Awarding institution
- University of Strathclyde
- Date of award
- 2025
- Thesis identifier
- T17316
- Person Identifier (Local)
- 202268435
- Qualification Level
- Qualification Name
- Department, School or Faculty
- Abstract
- This thesis explores the environmental impacts of heat pollution from Underground Thermal Energy Storage (UTES) Systems and their effects on the near-surface environment. The research identifies key environmental gaps, emphasising the need for mitigation to support sustainable development. A combination of literature review, data collection from the Barony Mineshaft case study in Cumnock, Scotland, modelling, and environmental assessment is used to understand how heat from UTES systems can function as a pollutant. The study assesses four environmental aspects: biodiversity, forestry, geology (including contaminated land), groundwater, and surface water. Elevated temperatures in water bodies may displace fish species and disrupt wildlife migration, although some species seek warmer waters in colder seasons. Heat can also affect soil moisture, depleting nutrients and causing soil drying, which impacts forestry and may lead to subsidence. Additionally, it may encourage the growth of invasive species resilient to high temperatures. Temperature fluctuations in groundwater and surface water directly influence conductivity, pH, and oxygen levels, affecting water quality, animal and plant species, and potential infrastructure stability. A case study of the Barony Mineshaft project, part of the ‘GigaWatt Hour Subsurface Thermal Energy Storage’ (STEaM) initiative, provided data for a condensed environmental assessment. This led to the recommendation of a 40°C threshold for UTES operations, noting that temperatures above 60°C pose significant risks to environmental receptors. While this threshold offers guidance for potential UTES projects, its applicability depends on different factors, such as the nature, size, scale, locality of the project and potential significant environmental aspects. The complexities of setting a threshold for UTES operations are addressed through an Outline UTES Environmental Impact Assessment Framework. This framework highlights the importance of early engagement with relevant stakeholders, the use of a Conceptual Site Model to identify at risk environmental receptors, the application of the mitigation hierarchy, and continuous monitoring to ensure efficient operations and environmental protection.
- Advisor / supervisor
- Shipton, Zoe
- Burnside, Neil
- Resource Type
- DOI
- Embargo Note
Relations
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File | 2025-05-13 | University of Strathclyde |