Indigenous clean energy project receives over $3.6 million to pursue geothermal energy

(CNW Group/Pacific Economic Development Canada)

TERRACE — Geothermal energy is heat contained below the earth’s surface. It is a clean and renewable form of energy that can replace fossil fuel energy sources and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. British Columbia is well positioned to become a leader in developing geothermal energy because the province sits along the Pacific Ocean “Ring of Fire,” an area with significant geothermal energy potential because of volcanoes.

Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan), announced over $3.6 million in PacifiCan funding to help Kitselas Geothermal harness geothermal energy for commercial use.

With funding through PacifiCan’s Jobs and Growth Fund, Kitselas Geothermal will drill production wells to harness geothermal energy. This project is expected to generate over 170 jobs.

“Development of the ‘Fuel for Reconciliation’ geothermal energy project is a significant step towards Kitselas First Nation’s economic independence,” said Alison Thompson, Director, Kitselas Geothermal Inc. “The project also contributes to B.C.’s and Canada’s transition towards clean energy by demonstrating technology, training highly qualified professionals, and providing a proving ground for regulatory reform that will benefit both future project phases and other geothermal projects elsewhere in the country.”