First Nation appeals to province to help cover $6.3M shortfall on $100M geothermal project

“We’re in a time crunch,” Gale said late last week. 

The Clarke Lake Geothermal Project will use existing infrastructure like roads, well pads and the occasional well from the Clarke Lake gas field located near the Fort Nelson First Nation. It’s estimated it will create enough renewable energy to power 5,000 to 11,000 homes. 

Most of the project’s $100-million cost has been secured through commercial investors interested in renewable energy, plus the $40 million from the federal government. The $6.3-million shortfall is for the initial phase of the project, called the proof of concept period, which will trigger the investments. 

The shortfall was recognized about six months ago as the project costs solidified. 

Gale says the project is “shovel ready” and would help the economically depressed northeastern region of the province, especially during the pandemic. 

She also emphasized the project will help shift the region from its dependence on fossil fuels.

“If B.C. and Canada are serious about achieving net-zero emissions targets, projects like Clarke Lake must be shown significant support,” she said. 

“And, in our case, so we can show support for the inclusion of Indigenous communities in the economic mainstream of Canada by harnessing green energy.” 

Permit issued in January

The planned geothermal project will create power by moving warm liquid from about five kilometres below ground to the surface. Steam from the liquid — a mix of water and minerals — is then used to spin a turbine. The liquid is then cooled and recirculated below the surface.

The province granted the Clarke Lake project a permit January 2020, recognizing it would decrease northeastern B.C.’s reliance on fossil fuels.

The region isn’t currently connected to the BC Hydro’s electricity grid, according to a government statement. Power for the area is generated from fossil fuels or imported from Alberta.

The Energy, Mines and Low Carbon Innovation Ministry said it’s working with the Fort Nelson First Nation and helped extend the federal government deadline from Dec. 31 so the nation could seek additional funding.

So far, the province has contributed $430,000 to the $100-million project. 

Gale says the province has been very supportive of the project so far. She hopes that support can be extended so the project can get started. 

She said COVID-19 has made it more difficult to navigate and troubleshoot the $6.3-million loss with her community members, many of whom don’t have internet connections or the ability to meet online.

“We don’t make big decisions over Zoom,” she said.