This section describes how to use the UK Geothermal Platform, focusing on the map explorer and access to the data search and downloads.
We guide you through your journey by presenting some example problem statements and how you might solve these. You will be able to view the simple steps you need to take or click on short videos which walk you through a practical demonstration on how to use the map explorer and data search and downloads.
Map explorer
This is an interactive, visual tool lets you explore, view and analyse the geothermal potential on the map directly.
Key features
- interactive map interface (zoom, pan, click)
- layers can be turned on and off
- data details can be accessed by following on 'More info' feature
- attribute table docking
How to use the map explorer
Problem statement
As funder or policy maker, how do I find out what the geothermal potential of a closed loop ground source heat pump system is in Keyworth?
Solution workflow
- Select Keyworth location from the search bar
- Turn on overall cost and summary layer from the summary layers
- Select on the hex cells and check the closed loop attributes
Problem statement
As a researcher, how do I know what is the estimated temperature of the ground at 100 m below surface and what is the bedrock geology at surface?
Solution workflow
- Select your area of interest
- Go to the geothermal information layer and select 'estimated temperature map of the UK (100 m depth)'
- Turn on Boreholes and wells layer and pick BGS SOBI Boreholes
Problem statement
As a geothermal developer, how do I find out more about the data in the tool, including the license type for use in my day job?
Solution workflow
- Select the layer that you are interested in
- Select in the more info button
- Check the license conditions and full metadata catalogue
Summary layers
The UK Geothermal Platform summary layers have been created by the BGS for DESNZ and other stakeholders to present information that indicate the potential of the ground for geothermal energy across Great Britain. Details of the methodology for the summary layer we developed are available for download.
Data search and downloads
A metadata catalogue is more of a search and discovery tool for datasets. It focus on the information about the data.
Key features
- search for datasets by keywords and filters
- show detailed metadata (title, abstract, format, licence, owner)
- include links to download datasets or view in the map viewer
Difference between the map explorer and data search and downloads
| Feature | Map explorer | Data search and downloads |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Visual exploration | Dataset discovery |
| Interface | Interactive map | Search database |
| Data access | Access map data | Metadata and download links |
| Focus | Spatial content | Data documentation |
| Ideal for | Find what's in a dataset | Understand what datasets exist and their specifications |
Ready to explore the potential of geothermal energy?
Access the Map explorer Access the Data search and downloads