Polish visitors inspired by Gateshead heat network

A North East region with a rich mining heritage is showing Poland’s Silesia a path to cleaner energy.

Visitors from Silesia, Poland’s most industrialised mining region, toured Gateshead to explore its innovative heat network powered by naturally warmed mine water. 

The group, including trade unionists, government planners, business leaders and academics, visited the North East as part of a study linked to the Durham Miners’ Gala, aiming to learn from the region’s transition away from coal.

With 70,000 miners still active in Silesia but facing industry closure by 2049, the delegation studied the UK’s largest mine water heat recovery station in Gateshead. 

This clean energy solution taps into old mine workings, offering a sustainable alternative to coal and the potential for cheaper heating for homes and businesses.

Officials said the visit highlighted how former mining regions can use their legacy to drive future economic growth and energy resilience as they prepare for a post-carbon era.

Grezgorz Trefon, a team organiser from the trade union KADRA, said: “It has been so interesting to see the possibilities of developing very energy-efficient heat from mines.

“We are still in the process of transitioning away from fossil fuels and will learn more about the possibilities for Silesia and its people by planning ahead.

“The Gateshead scheme is truly impressive and we have much to learn. 

“We can see what is possible. 

“The next steps are to see how we can use our current working mines to exploit the heat and energy potential.

“The time is now for us to start planning our futures. 

“We are very grateful that the people of the North East are willing to share their experiences with us – both good and bad.

“Everyone has been welcoming and very honest. 

“It has been an enlightening and inspirational trip.”

From left, Mark Ferguson MP, Jim Gillon, energy services manager at Gateshead Council, and councillor Gary Haley, deputy leader of Gateshead Council

Mark Ferguson, MP for Gateshead Central and Whickham, added: “Gateshead played a central role in the early development of mining technology. 

“From the early bell pits in Sunniside to the pioneering waggonway transporting coal to the Staiths and on to the world, we have a rich heritage.

“So, it’s amazing to welcome the miners from Silesia to learn lessons from Gateshead on mine water heating and locally-owned energy, as they look to their own future. 

“We are once again an industry leader in this area, and that should be recognised and celebrated.”

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