What lies beneath: 9 geothermal projects heating up Canada

Clean power might be beneath our feet.

Canada is making significant strides in geothermal energy, leveraging its diverse geological conditions to develop both power generation and heating solutions. From large-scale power facilities to innovative district heating systems, these projects showcase a wide range of applications for geothermal energy.

Indigenous leadership, government support, and private sector partnerships play crucial roles in advancing geothermal initiatives that blend sustainability with economic development. The following projects exemplify Canada’s growing commitment to clean energy, innovation, and community involvement.

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) Expansion

Vancouver International Airport (YVR) is undergoing a significant expansion, which includes the integration of one of Canada’s largest geothermal energy systems. The project involves a 300,000-square-foot terminal addition and a state-of-the-art Central Utilities Building that features a geoexchange system. Hundreds of vertical boreholes and 841,000 feet of HDPE geothermal piping have been installed, enhancing the airport’s heating and cooling capabilities through sustainable geothermal energy.

This expansion, located in Richmond, British Columbia, is a joint effort between YVR, local contractors, and environmental consultants, working to meet the airport’s sustainability goals.

DEEP Earth Energy Production Project

DEEP, located near Torquay in southeast Saskatchewan, is set to become Canada’s first large-scale geothermal power facility. DEEP Earth Energy Production Corp. is developing a 25 MW geothermal power plant, with the potential for expansion to over 200 MW. The project uses production and injection wells drilled to depths of 3.5 km, leveraging Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) technology. SaskPower has signed a 5 MW power purchase agreement, and Natural Resources Canada is providing support.

In a groundbreaking partnership, DEEP has teamed up with Oppy, a major grower and distributor of fresh produce, to establish an integrated greenhouse, harnessing geothermal energy for both clean power generation and sustainable agriculture.

Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal Project

The Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal Project, located in Fort Nelson, British Columbia, is an ambitious initiative led by the Fort Nelson First Nation, with support from Natural Resources Canada. Formerly known as the Clarke Lake Geothermal Project, it aims to utilize geothermal energy from existing gas well data to provide clean, renewable energy to the region. The geothermal resource is expected to meet the region’s electrical needs entirely.

In addition to power generation, the project includes plans for an industrial greenhouse, creating jobs and fostering energy sovereignty for the Fort Nelson First Nation.

Swan Hills Geothermal Power Project

The Swan Hills Geothermal Power Project, located in Alberta, became commercially operational in March 2023. Developed by FutEra Power, a subsidiary of Razor Energy Corp., this 21-MW facility uniquely combines geothermal energy with co-produced hydrocarbon fluids from an enhanced oil recovery (EOR) operation. It leverages existing infrastructure, tapping into 84 wells to generate clean energy from water heated to 90°C–100°C.

The project is a collaboration between Razor Energy Corp., FutEra Power, and other industry stakeholders, highlighting the potential for hybrid geothermal solutions in Alberta’s energy transition.

Alberta No. 1 Project

The Alberta No. 1 Project, located near Grande Prairie, Alberta, is a significant geothermal initiative aiming to generate 5 MW of power for the grid. Led by Terrapin Geothermics, the project will also provide heat to a nearby industrial park, supporting local industry with sustainable energy solutions. Alberta No. 1 has received substantial funding from Natural Resources Canada, highlighting the government’s commitment to advancing geothermal energy in the country.

This project stands out for its potential to stimulate local economic growth and reduce dependence on fossil fuels.

Springhill, Nova Scotia Heat Pump System

The Springhill Heat Pump System is a unique geothermal project located in Nova Scotia, repurposing a former coal mine for geothermal energy production. Warm water from the abandoned mine is used to heat portions of the Springhill Industrial Park through eight heat pump systems.

This innovative project demonstrates how geothermal energy can be harvested from non-traditional sources, such as abandoned mines. Approximately 3% of Nova Scotia’s energy is now generated from geothermal sources, and the Springhill system is a key example of how regions with historic mining activity can be transformed into hubs for clean energy production.

South Meager Geothermal Project

The South Meager Geothermal Project, located about 60 kilometers northwest of Pemberton, British Columbia, is one of Canada’s most advanced geothermal energy ventures. Developed by Western GeoPower Corp. in its earlier stages, this high-temperature, volcano-hosted project has undergone extensive exploration since the 1970s, including geological, geochemical, and geophysical studies.

With geothermal wells exceeding 230°C and strong permeability zones, the South Meager project holds the potential for significant power generation. The development is expected to supply renewable energy to British Columbia and diversify its energy sources.

Valemount Geothermal Project

Situated near Valemount, British Columbia, the Valemount Geothermal Project is another emerging geothermal initiative in Canada. The project is in the exploratory stage, with initial studies indicating significant potential for electricity production. Once operational, it is expected to provide around 15-20 MW of power.

The Valemount area is geologically favorable due to its proximity to the Rocky Mountains, where geothermal heat is readily accessible. This project not only aims to generate renewable power but also plans to provide direct heat to the local community, offering a unique opportunity for sustainable development in the region. The project is backed by Borealis GeoPower, a leading Canadian geothermal company.

Kitselas Geothermal

Located in Terrace, British Columbia, the Terrace Geothermal Project is part of a broader effort to explore the geothermal potential of the region. Developed by Kitselas Geothermal Inc., a partnership between Borealis GeoPower and the Kitselas First Nation, the project focuses on producing both electricity and heat.

The area has shown significant geothermal promise, with preliminary studies confirming high temperatures beneath the surface. The project is expected to supply clean power to local communities and industries, including potential use in district heating systems. This project also highlights the increasing role of First Nations in renewable energy development, fostering both energy independence and economic growth.