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Heriot-Watt University has pledged to aid in the restoration of Ukraine’s war-shattered energy infrastructure.
The University has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Geothermal Ukraine, the non-profit research and development organisation committed to promoting the development of geothermal energy projects in Ukraine. Both parties have agreed to work together to develop, modernise and safeguard Ukraine’s renewable energy sector.
The research and development of geothermal energy sources as well as innovative energy solutions will enhance energy supplies, contribute to the rebuild of Ukraine's energy sector and overcome the energy crisis caused by Russia's full-scale invasion.
There is an opportunity for the University to offer its renowned expertise in subsurface energy to help where there is a great need.
Professor Igor Guz is Executive Dean of the School of Engineering and Physical Sciences, said: “With the signing of this MoU we embark on a journey to restore Ukraine’s war-torn energy landscape. Together, through the power of geothermal energy, we pledge to modernise and restore the very foundation that sustains a nation. This collaboration exemplifies the true essence of academia, transcending borders to bring about positive change for generations to come.
“This MoU is momentous and strengthens important relations between the academic sector in Ukraine and in the UK.”
Geothermal energy is a type of renewable energy taken from the Earth’s subsurface. It comes from heat generated during the original formation of the planet and the radioactive decay of materials. The thermal energy is stored in rocks and fluids within the earth that, when extracted, provides a reliable and sustainable source of energy.
Heriot-Watt University was selected for the MoU for its excellence in geoenergy and for its world-leading expertise in innovation and research. The partnership promises to enhance and strengthen Ukraine’s energy security by implementing low-carbon transition solutions.
Professor Vasily Demyanov from Heriot-Watt’s Institute of GeoEnergy Engineering added: “There is an opportunity for the University to offer its renowned expertise in subsurface energy to help where there is a great need. We are committed to playing our part in rebuilding Ukraine’s post-war energy infrastructure and assisting the Ukrainian people overcome the challenges of energy shortages caused by the war.”
Under the MoU, the collective expertise, resources, and innovation of both parties will be leveraged to conduct research and development activities, and accelerate the development of geothermal energy in Ukraine. It also focuses on developing a flexible autonomous distributed energy system.
The MoU further strengthens relations between Ukraine and the UK’s academic sector.