Conduct a feasibility study and research to assess the financial and non-financial benefits and build the business case. Identify business models that generate the income needed for financial sustainability but also affordability for hospitals, schools, care homes and food banks. Choose a site for the pilot considering the criteria identified.

Get senior leaders’ buy-in from Leeds City Council, Coal Authority, and University of Leeds to continue leading change.

Strengthen and develop partnerships, advancing the existing Public and Private Research and Innovation Partnership to overcome economic, social, technical and regulatory barriers. Key partners include Leeds City Council, the Coal Authority, University of Leeds, landowners, the LEP, Angel investors, and strategic partners (e.g. STC, Yorkshire Water, Feed Leeds), among others. Appoint a board to take ownership and responsibility for the business case, communication strategy, and attracting investment.

Adjust local policy to support geothermal energy for food production by: changing planning policy to support geothermal mine water energy as an option; changeing procurement rules to favour local food production; including geothermal energy as a possible energy provision in the City’s Food Strategy; and develop a food label for ‘local food production’.

Lobby at a national level for 1) the importance of mine water energy for food production, engaging local and backbench MPs; 2) the need to set up a governing body like in the oil industry that sets out rules and levels the playing field; 3) the urgent need for incentives, support, and grants for research and development for geothermal and horticulture technology - showing examples of how other countries are incentivising the industry to develop.

Develop an engagement strategy to develop social acceptability and prevent misinformation among the public. Engage community leaders or local ambassadors and organise events with local residents to provide a space for knowledge exchange and the consideration of concerns.

Employ early knowledge sharing on an international level with the industry, academia, relevant institutions and organisations to facilitate knowledge and data flows. Increase engagement with current professionals from the oil and gas industry, particularly around modelling and drilling.