Geoscience BC Completes Phase 1 Assessment of Geothermal Energy and Carbon Storage Potential in Northwest BC
Vancouver, BC – April 9, 2025 – Geoscience BC has released the results of a new desk-top study assessing the potential for geothermal energy and geological carbon storage in British Columbia’s Northwest Region.
The study utilized a Play Fairway analysis methodology to evaluate geothermal favourability across the region, identifying Mount Edziza/Spectrum Range and the Iskut-Unuk River area as particularly promising for further geothermal resource assessment. It also provided a high-level review of carbon storage potential in deep sedimentary saline aquifers and through mineralization in rock formations.
Led by Dr. Catherine Hickson, the project was completed by Tuya Terra Geo Corp. with partner funding provided by BC’s Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions. The study identifies locations within the project area for further investigations, supporting industry, communities, Indigenous groups, and government in advancing clean energy opportunities.
“This research is a critical step in understanding Northwest BC’s potential for low-carbon energy and carbon sequestration,” said Tuya Terra Geo Corp. President, Dr. Catherine Hickson. “By providing an analysis of publicly available independent geoscience data, we are reducing costs by helping future interested parties focus activities on areas of higher favourability and supporting informed decision-making on future cleaner energy projects.”
Geoscience BC Manager Energy & Water, Randy Hughes said: “The findings align with BC’s CleanBC Roadmap to 2030 and federal decarbonization goals by identifying areas where geothermal energy and carbon storage could play a role in sustainable development.”
Accessing information
To view project information, visit the project page. The full study, including geothermal favourability maps and recommendations for further research, is available on Geoscience BC's website at view project page link.
View project in Earth Science Viewer
About Geoscience BC
Geoscience BC's independent, public geoscience is a first link in the supply chain for Canada's net-zero emissions economy.
Our critical minerals and metals, cleaner energy and geological carbon capture and storage research is funded by industry, government and other partners. It informs evidence-based decisions by industry, governments, Indigenous groups and communities.
Geoscience BC is guided by a volunteer Board of Directors, technical and Indigenous volunteers and by Geoscience BC members. We are a not-for-profit society incorporated under the BC Societies Act.
We gratefully acknowledge the financial support of our partners, including the Province of British Columbia through the Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions.
Visit geosciencebc.com or follow us @GeoscienceBC to find out more.
For more information, please contact:
Gavin C. Dirom
Geoscience BC
dirom@geosciencebc.com