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NI GEOTHERMAL ENERGY RESEARCH PROJECT: GEOPHYSICAL SURVEYS



The Geological Survey of Northern Ireland (GSNI) is carrying out research into the potential for deep geothermal energy resources in Northern Ireland. Geothermal energy, the heat stored in rocks below the ground surface, is a low-carbon renewable source of heating or electricity, and the area north of Lough Neagh has been selected for further investigation.



Specialist geophysical contractors, Geosystem and Apex Geoservices, have been commissioned to carry out ground-based magneto-telluric and gravity geophysical surveys in the Antrim and Ballymena districts in March 2009.



The magneto-telluric survey measures fluctuations in the Earth's magnetic field and the small electrical fields generated in the earth, and the gravity survey measures small variations in the strength of the force of gravity. These measurements can be related to the subsurface geology - the types of rocks and the depths at which they occur - which is useful in exploring for rocks with geothermal energy potential.



Both geophysical surveys use passive techniques, with portable recording equipment, and have negligible environmental impact. Magneto-telluric measurements are made in fields or open land, whereas gravity readings may be taken at the roadside.



Further information is available from Geological Survey of Northern Ireland on 028 9038 8462, by e-mail to gsni@detini.gov.uk, or in writing to Geological Survey of Northern Ireland, Colby House, Stranmillis Court, Belfast, BT9 5BF.