| Abstract |
Canada has a time-sensitive opportunity to become a global leader in geothermal energy, but this potential hinges on the development of clear, consistent, and effective subsurface regulations. Drawing on best practices from the world’s top geothermal power producers, this paper outlines a comprehensive set of recommendations and model guidelines tailored to Canada’s unique federal structure and geological diversity. This paper presents six overarching regulatory principles: clearly defining the geothermal resource, ensuring technology-agnostic language, streamlining permitting processes, preventing resource monopolies, setting realistic tenure timelines, and embedding early public engagement. It also introduces model definitions for geothermal resource, ownership, and tenure, emphasizing flexibility, inclusivity, and compatibility with co-production of other subsurface resources. The guidelines propose a three-stage tenure model—development, operation, and decommissioning—designed to reduce administrative burden while maintaining environmental and financial accountability. Additional recommendations address permitting timelines, fee structures, and liability management. By harmonizing regulations across jurisdictions and integrating Indigenous rights and municipal priorities, Canada can create a low-risk, high-certainty environment for geothermal investment. These guidelines serve as a blueprint for provinces and territories to either establish or refine their geothermal regulations, enabling the country to unlock its vast geothermal potential and contribute meaningfully to a clean, secure, and resilient energy future. |