| Title | Social Acceptance of Geothermal Systems in Western Canada: Perspectives from British Columbia and Alberta |
|---|---|
| Authors | Carlos Gorraez-Meraz |
| Year | 2026 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | |
| Abstract | The success of the energy transition depends not only on technological advancements but also on public support and behavior change. For geothermal energy to thrive, three conditions must align: knowledge and smart engineering, supportive policies and regulations, and strong social acceptance. Social acceptance—defined as the public’s approval and support of renewable energy technologies—drives the behaviors that ultimately enable their adoption. However, the level of public acceptance of geothermal energy remains largely unknown due to limited research and low awareness at national, regional, and local levels. Although geothermal resources can provide sustainable heat, firm baseload electricity, and create synergies with sectors such as oil, gas, and critical minerals, the technology still lags behind better-known renewables like hydro, solar, and wind in both visibility and public support. This study investigates the social acceptance of geothermal energy in British Columbia (BC) and Alberta (AB), two provinces with contrasting energy landscapes, policy frameworks, and resource profiles. Covering the full geo-energy spectrum—from shallow to ultra-deep geothermal systems—we conduct a cross-sectional survey with a representative sample to identify key social and behavioral drivers and barriers to public support. Grounded in behavioral science, the research focuses on factors such as perceived benefits and risks, trust, environmental values, and familiarity with geothermal technologies to understand how these shape public attitudes and intentions. The findings will offer empirical insights for policymakers, industry leaders, and community organizations, providing informed strategies to strengthen engagement, address misconceptions, and enhance communication, ultimately contributing to broader geothermal energy adoption in Canada’s clean energy future. |