Geothermal Energy Development

Introduction

Geothermal energy offers a number of advantages as a renewable energy source and is an important component of Canada's transition to a low-carbon energy future. In comparison to the intermittent output of traditional renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind power, it can provide constant, predictable baseload power year-round, with little fluctuation of power output. With proper reservoir management, geothermal resources are renewable in the sense that their thermal capacity can be assessed and designed to be maintained and replenished over the life of the power plants. In addition, geothermal power facilities typically have a small land footprint and a low carbon footprint, and consume less water than conventional power plants. Another perceived advantage in Western Canada is the potential to utilize the skillsets and experience of an existing oil and gas workforce and associated technologies, as well as the possibility of repurposing some oil