Security of energy supply and reduction of carbon emissions is central to the UK Government's energy policy, as is maintaining a suitable mix of future energy resources.
The UK's natural resources are declining and will only be partially replaced by indigenous renewables.
BGS supports science that seeks to understand and maximise the recovery of dwindling fossil fuel reserves, as well as helping the development of renewable energy such as geothermal power.
Further fossil fuel development could be mitigated by carbon capture and storage (CCS). BGS is a world leader in CCS science and geophysical research into the structure of underground reservoirs, as well as a centre for research into unconventional hydrocarbon and coal resource development.
Underground reservoirs and the flow of liquids and gases within them are important to our understanding of reserves of oil, gas and groundwater.
BGS is recognised as a European centre of excellence for the study of carbon dioxide storage.
Research into drilling into coal seams to extract the methane that naturally occurs within coal.
The UK Geoenergy Observatories will establish new centres for research into the subsurface environment: generating knowledge that will contribute to the responsible development of new energy technologies.
BGS is a partner in the Midlands Energy Consortium, a collaboration in energy research and training, along with the Universities of Birmingham, Loughborough, Nottingham and Warwick.
Plans to generate better data through a National Geophysical Survey extend BGS National Geological Model.
Working with UK and overseas governments to provide geological and oil prospectivity advice.
From prospectivity assessment and shale fracture analysis to materials testing and hydrological impact assessment.
The UK is in need of increased gas storage to smooth out sudden demands in supply.
Contact Dave Schofield for more information.