The Current Status of Geothermal Exploration and Development in Canada

Abstract

Comparatively low costs for hydroelectricity and fossil fuels have had a restraining influence on levels of exploration and development for geothermal energy resources in Canada for the past several years. Since 1995, when Pacific Geopower suspended its high-temperature drilling project at Meager Creek, B.C., the focus of development has been in the areas of low temperature geothermal energy technology (involving aquifer thermal energy storage or heat pumps) and in the exploration and assessment of hotspring resources primarily for recreational applications ñ although possibly for other direct uses depending on local infrastructure and access to appropriate energy markets. This paper reviews the current status of the geothermal industry (both high and low temperature) in Canada.