Fiona Todd

Principal Research and Development (R&D) Manager for mine water heat at The Coal Authority

What do you do?

I am the Principal Research and Development (R&D) manager for mine water heat at The Coal Authority. My route to getting this role started with a BSc in Geology from Durham, followed by an MSc in Hydrogeology. I then worked as a hydrogeologist in consultancy and the public sector for many years, before taking a leap of faith by leaving my job to undertake a PhD, which ultimately led me back to The Coal Authority in an R&D role.

How are you involved in this area of science? 

The Coal Authority are a partner on the GEMS project, which is an interdisciplinary project focusing on assessing geothermal energy from mine workings. As a non-departmental public body, the Coal Authority manages Britain’s mining legacy on behalf of UK Government. One of our aims is to make a better future for people and the environment in mining areas.

While mine water heat uses established technology we recognise we have an important part to play in establishing this as a heat source in Great Britain. My role, as Principal R&D manager, is to work closely with researchers to help develop this opportunity through knowledge sharing and facilitating access to our unique assets and data.

What do you love about this topic?

I love the fact that my work makes a direct impact in our drive to reach Net Zero. I am working with some of the world’s foremost researchers in this area and I am able to contribute insights and advice which allow the cutting edge research to be applicable in real world situations. I love being involved in a variety of research projects and facilitating knowledge sharing between them.

How does this work deliver real-world impact?

The potential for mine heat supply has been proved in the UK and abroad and the research as part of this project is developing that understanding further. By integrating novel simulation tools and innovative solutions, key questions on the long-term sustainability and social, economic and policy aspects of mine water heating are being explored. The outputs from research such as the GEMS project better inform our work at The Coal Authority, and enable us to make decisions underpinned by science and evidence.