Iceland has been a long standing geothermal superpower since the 1970’s. In that time, Iceland has evolved and expanded their geothermal applications and now set the world example for how to efficiently and dynamically use geothermal resources. From large scale power production to greenhouses surrounding Reykjavik, the range of applications leaves nothing to waste.

Upon returning from the International Geothermal Conference in Iceland, Canadians who took part in the trip left asking why Canada has not made the same strides in shifting our energy policies towards geothermal energy. With a large amount of readily available resources and a well equipped workforce, it seems like it may be time that Canada takes an example from Iceland and the 24 other countries around the world already using using geothermal energy production. At the very least Canada should be exploring geothermal options to co-produce or utilize the heat from the 400,000+ orphan oil/gas wells that are already suitable for secondary geothermal application.

​To read Hamish Stewart's full article from the National Observer click here


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​Alberta has been the energy powerhouse in Canada for decades, but after the significant drop in oil prices, 100,000 out of work, and devastating wildfires in Fort McMurray, can it continue to be so in an economy that is carbon-constrained? With considerable geothermal energy potential in Alberta, and 400 000+ existing wells throughout the province, development of geothermal resources would help accelerate Canada into a sustainable energy future. Around the world places such as Nevada, Iceland and New Zealand are already well established in developing innovative and renewable projects that require no dams, emissions or risky new technology. Alberta has the potential to continue to be the energy powerhouse in Canada but Albertans and policy-makers need to recognize that the future will not look like the past.

To check out the full article from The Tyee click here

As coal-fired electric power is phased out in Alberta, geothermal-generated electricity could be the answer. Geothermal research and the development of facilities in many towns and cities across Alberta could lead to an increase in power production and a provide a boost to the economy. Currently there are no commercial geothermal power plants operating in Alberta but the technology it takes to run a geothermal facility is directly transferable to the technologies already used by oil and gas companies. Moving forward, Alberta needs renewable energy in its portfolio, and geothermal resource development does appear to be a very favourable avenue.

To check out the full article from CBC news click here

DeSmog Canada - This is Geothermal

Carol Linnitt from DeSmog Canada has produced a great video showcasing Iceland’s impressive and innovative use of geothermal resources during the annual Iceland Geothermal Conference in Reykjavik. DeSmog provides an exciting look into what the future holds for geothermal energy production in Canada by showcasing the outstanding capacity of the Hellisheidi power plant, which has an installed capacity of approx. 300 MWe and 150MWth.

The video also includes interviews with the Geological Survey of Canada's (GSC) Steven Grasby, one of the leading researchers of geothermal energy in Canada, and CanGEA’s very own Alison Thompson commenting on the enormous potential and added value of geothermal energy in Canada across a whole spectrum of electrical and thermal applications. 

​To cap off the video is an interview with a local farmer who has for generations been using a geothermal conduit located in the core of the city to heat greenhouses to provide fresh produce all year round. 
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​To check out the video for yourself click here.