Most have only a vague idea of what geothermal entails. Geothermal energy is one of the most reliable, clean and renewable energy sources with almost no greenhouse gas emissions. Once developed, a geothermal plant can deliver a stable source of power. Geothermal energy draws sustainable power from the natural thermal energy contained in the rock and fluid in the Earth’s crust.
Geothermal energy options are not front and center in B.C. for the most part. This source of energy is a major player in some European countries and even in California. It could be here too, but it is expensive. As a result, most examples we see are large complexes such as Shoal Point in James Bay, The Pier in Sidney or Camden Green in Royal Oak. It is not the type of technology someone would implement by drilling a hole in their back yard. In the future, community subdivisions may utilize this resource in much the same way large condo buildings have.
The province of B.C. continues to move forward with clean, renewable energy opportunities, including expanding geothermal, announced Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Minister Blair Lekstrom. Permits have been given out by the province and provide the exclusive right to explore the area for geothermal energy.
Two UBC professors, John A. Meech and Mory Ghomshei, say geothermal can power up to 1,125,000 homes in B.C. within 10 to 15 years.
A proposal being studied at Meager Creek, 70 kilometres northwest of Pemberton, might produce enough electricity for over 90,000 households a year.
Many British Columbians already use lower-temperature geothermal energy. These are much smaller operations used to heat and cool offices, industrial and commercial buildings and even individual houses. Geothermal pumps transfer heat from a level 15 to 30 metres below the surface. In summer, the system transfers heat from the building into the ground. Over 33,000 such units are presently in place across Canada
The following link gives an example of a project planned for Nelson, BC.
Comments