| Title | Geothermal Exploration Challenges in Canada |
|---|---|
| Authors | Daniel Alonso Torres |
| Year | 2026 |
| Conference | World Geothermal Congress |
| Keywords | Exploration, Canada, Geoscience, Geophysics, Drilling |
| Abstract | Exploration represents an essential initial step in the development of any natural resource, and a necessary activity for the continued economic growth of societies. In geothermal energy, exploration ranges from field surveys of thermal springs to complex data-driven methodologies and multi-million-dollar drilling campaigns. Geological, geochemical, geophysical, remote sensing surveys, and exploratory drilling are tailored to specific geological settings. These activities are used to identify signs of geothermal activity, define the type and distribution of geothermal resources, and inform decision-making for capital investments and land-use planning. Innovative techniques in each of these fields continue to be developed, but their effectiveness is dependent on site-specific conditions. Policies that require the publication of geoscientific data while protecting competitive proprietary information, along with systems to maintain these databases over decades, are instrumental in leveraging the value of exploration investments. Canada presents unique geological conditions that pose difficulties for the exploration of geothermal resources. Extensive glacial, lacustrine, fluvial, and volcanic deposits conceal the underlying bedrock, prevent and dilute the upward migration of deep fluids, and hamper signal quality in geophysical surveys. This stacking of aquifers and aquitards can also cause geothermal systems to go undetected during drilling. The northern climate, vegetation cover, wildlife, remoteness, limited infrastructure, and labour availability in much of Canada present further challenges and increase exploration costs and timelines. Historical geoscientific data focused on extractive industries, while abundant, frequently omitted areas and datasets relevant to geothermal resource exploration. In this environment, thoughtful planning is paramount to the success of geothermal exploration campaigns. |