Truro and Falmouth MP, Sarah Newton has welcomed a report outlining the potential of geothermal energy in the UK, and tthe key role Cornwall could play.

The report claims that geothermal resources could produce enough electricity to power 20 per cent of UK homes, with 'hot spots' such as Cornwall, well placed to play a major role.

The Report, entitled ‘Geothermal Potential for Great Britain and Northern Ireland’, was published today by engineering consultants Sinclair Knight Merz (SKM) with the support of the Renewable Energy Association (REA).

Mrs Newton has called upon secretary of state for energy and climate change, Ed Davey MP, to carefully consider the finding of the Report, as the government prepares to publish proposed changes to the Renewable Obligation, the means by which it supports large-scale renewable electricity generation.

Mrs Newton says she has been a keen advocate of geothermal energy, and that she has worked to secure the construction of the UK’s first commercial deep geothermal power plant outside Truro.

The proposed power plant, to be located at United Downs, could create over a thousand jobs.

Sarah Newton said: "The SKM Report published today demonstrates the benefits that the further development of geothermal energy could bring to the UK, and to Cornwall in particular.

"I will continue to support the development of the United Downs Geothermal Plant, and to press Ministers to provide the appropriate support for the UK’s developing geothermal industry.

"Forthcoming changes to the Renewable Obligation provides an excellent opportunity to ensure that government support for "