Energy
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.
Research areas
Advanced seismic techniques
Underground reservoirs and the flow of liquids and gases within them are important to our understanding of reserves of oil, gas and groundwater.
CO2 storage
BGS is recognised as a European centre of excellence for the study of carbon dioxide storage.
Clean coal exploitation and unconventional gas
Research into drilling into coal seams to extract the methane that naturally occurs within coal.
UK Geoenergy Observatories
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.
National geophysical survey
Plans to generate better data through a National Geophysical Survey extend BGS National Geological Model.
Petroleum geoscience
Working with UK and overseas governments to provide geological and oil prospectivity advice.
Shale gas
From prospectivity assessment and shale fracture analysis to materials testing and hydrological impact assessment.
Underground natural gas storage
The UK is in need of increased gas storage to smooth out sudden demands in supply.
Contact
Contact Dave Schofield for more information.
