From the pre-planning consultation for the first deep geothermal power project at United Downs to the current day, GEL has always put an emphasis on community engagement. Over the years, GEL has strived to produce informative information in an array of formats to explain each phase of a geothermal project.
The community engagement team host group visits to the United Downs visitor centre for government officials, local authorities, interest groups and academics. Presentations are tailored to the group’s interest or can be a general overview of geothermal and the work GEL is doing in Cornwall. A visit to the viewing platform allows visitors to watch site activity from an elevated advantage point to round off the visit. If groups are unable to travel to United Downs, presentations can be given at the group’s regular meeting venue in Cornwall.
In the vicinity of all geothermal project sites, GEL endeavors to be part of the local community. The team are happy to help at fundraising events, as well as attending regular community events, annual agricultural shows, and seasonal fairs to chat to attendees about current and future developments. Mobile information resources are utilised to help the team explain more technical aspects of geothermal projects. Please use the contact page on this website if you would like to discuss the possibility of a GEL representative attending an event you are holding.
Community Fund
Each GEL geothermal power project will deposit £20k per well into a community grant fund (most sites will have 2 wells). The community grant fund will be managed by a third-party fund manager who has the expertise to help GEL support local causes that improve sustainability and or community cohesion, helping GEL to make a real difference to the lives of communities. This has already been proven around United Downs, where 14 community initiatives have been fully or partly funded.
When a grant fund is available for bids, information will be posted here, on social media and via local authorities and public newsletters.
