Question to the Department for Energy Security & Net Zero:

To ask the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, pursuant to the Answer of 18 September 2023 to Question 198502 on Geothermal Power: Southampton, what funding is available for a more detailed study to understand the full potential of heating available from the Wessex Basin Aquifer.

The Heat Networks Delivery Unit (HNDU) provides grant funding to local authorities and select public and private sector organisations in England and Wales for heat network development. This support is available via bidding rounds. Up to 67% of the total eligible costs of a development stage is available, with the exception of project management costs, which may be fully funded by HNDU for public sector applicants and registered social landlords. Grant funding is provided to successful local authorities under Section 31 of the Local Government Act and other applicants under Section 98 of the National Environment and Rural Communities Act 2006.

Currently, Round 13 is open for applicants, closing on 31 December 2023.