The Earth contains an incredibly vast amount of thermal energy. Geothermal energy uses the escaping heat from Earth’s core as a means to heat water to produce steam and use the pressure and produce electricity. After the steam condenses, the water may be pumped back down to be reused.
Geothermal energy may also refer to the use of underground water that, despite being at temperatures above boiling point, remains a liquid due to the high pressure of being deep beneath the surface. This water, when brought to the surface, immediately turns to steam and can be directly used to turn turbines.
BC Hydro has identified 16 prospective geothermal sites in the province, with the six most likely prospects having an estimated geothermal potential of over 1,000 megawatts collectively. Others estimate the provinces potential to be approximately 3,000 MW of capacity.
The best prospect for immediate development in BC is the South Meager Geothermal Project located 55 km north of Pemberton. South Meager, with average temperatures of 260 degrees Centigrade, has been assessed as having a potential generating capacity of up to 100 MW (enough to supply 80,000 homes).