WorldWide Drilling Resource

Exploring Geothermal Opportunities in British Columbia Adapted from a News Release by Geoscience BC Geoscience BC, a nonprofit organization in British Columbia (BC), Canada, is launching a project to identify and evaluate direct-use geothermal energy op- portunities for BC communities. "This project is the first step toward giving BC communities and businesses an understanding of what geothermal resources are available and how they may use them," said Dr. Catherine Hickson, principal of Tuya Terra Geo Corp and leader of the project. Although BC has significant potential for geothermal resources, there is no elec- tricity produced with geothermal power. In fact, direct-use geothermal energy is only used for therapeutic purposes at hot springs. "Direct-use geothermal energy is used in other parts of the world for space heating, agricultural, industrial, commercial, snow clearing, and recreational purposes," ex- plained geothermal geologist and direct- use expert, Gerald W. Huttrer, president of Geothermal Management Company, Inc. and science coleader for the project. Previous studies of direct-use geother- mal energy in BC have focused on the end use application or have been specific to locations or projects. Communities and local governments may not have access to the expert knowledge required to over- see a geothermal exploration program, or the cost of exploration may be a major barrier to wider adoption of direct-use geo- thermal energy. To help meet these needs, the project will compile existing, publicly-available geoscience data and survey communities to identify their needs, development choices, and economic development goals. The result will be a Geothermal Direct- Use Road Map designed for communities, containing guidelines for surface explo- ration, land acquisition and permitting, drilling, and testing wells, leading to design and construction of facilities to benefit all. 49 WorldWide Drilling Resource ® FEBRUARY 2016 Stay connected to the drilling world with WWDR ’s brand new Web site! Thought-provoking articles, diverse classified listings, upcoming events, photos, and much more. Find what you need to get the job done! worldwidedrillingresource.com NEW WEB SITE!