System: 6 MasterTherm heat pumps
2 × AquaMaster AQ150.2Z
4 × AquaMaster AQ120.2Z
Sector: Leisure / Community Facility
Location: Penzance, Cornwall
Key Features: The UK’s first geothermal lido, setting a national benchmark for renewable leisure facilities
Date: August 2020
Overview:
Jubilee Pool is a Grade II listed art deco lido located in Penzance, Cornwall. Originally designed by Captain F. Latham and opened in 1935 to commemorate King George V’s Silver Jubilee, the pool has long been a cherished community landmark. Built on Battery Rocks near the harbour, it was engineered to withstand Cornwall’s powerful coastal tides and provide a safe, elegant swimming space for locals.
After suffering significant storm damage in 2014, the pool faced uncertain times — until the community stepped in to bring it back to life.
Challenge:
The challenge was to transform Jubilee Pool from a seasonal, weather-dependent facility into a year-round attraction, while maintaining its historical character and structural integrity. The solution also needed to align with the community’s commitment to sustainability and reduced carbon emissions.
Solution:
In partnership with Jubilee Pool Penzance Ltd, we designed and installed a geothermal heat pump system to sustainably heat a section of the pool — making it the UK’s first and only geothermally heated lido.
System features:
- Installation of 6 MasterTherm heat pumps in the plant room:
- 2 × AquaMaster AQ150.2Z
- 4 × AquaMaster AQ120.2Z
- Total system output of 480 kWh
- Heat energy drawn from a 410-metre-deep geothermal well
- System heats the pool water to 35°C, providing a warm, comfortable swimming environment
- Project completed in approximately 3 months, with reopening in August 2020
Key Benefits:
- The UK’s first geothermal lido, setting a national benchmark for renewable leisure facilities
- Provides year-round swimming opportunities, boosting local tourism and wellbeing
- Supports the community-run social enterprise model of Jubilee Pool
- Integrates seamlessly with existing art deco infrastructure
- Reduces reliance on traditional energy sources, cutting operating costs and emissions
- Enhances visitor experience with consistent, comfortable water temperatures
Results:
- Jubilee Pool successfully reopened in August 2020, drawing nationwide media coverage including BBC, Mail Online, and Lonely Planet.
- The geothermal system allows for sustainable, all-season use, increasing visitor numbers and community engagement.
- The project has become a flagship example of how heritage facilities can embrace renewable technology without compromising their historic charm.
Awards & Recognition
- Winner – Best Use of Renewable Energy, Regen SW Awards
- Finalist – National Energy Efficiency Awards 2021
- Featured in: BBC News, Mail Online, Lonely Planet, The Guardian, and numerous sustainability publications
- Recognised nationally as a pioneering example of community-driven, renewable innovation
Client Feedback / Quote:
"Our goal was to make Jubilee Pool a space for everyone, all year round. Thanks to the geothermal system, we’ve not only achieved that — we’ve created a national landmark for sustainable leisure." – Jubilee Pool Penzance Ltd
