The Panel finds that geothermal is potentially a viable alternative and we do not agree with BC Hydro that geothermal should be excluded from consideration as part of its alternative portfolio.
Geothermal is a mature technology as can be seen by looking at the record of countries such as Iceland. While it is possible there is no potential in BC, BC Hydro does not provide persuasive evidence this is the case. BC Hydro’s experience of drilling for 30 years at Meager Creek yet being unsuccessful perhaps demonstrates there is low to no potential at Meager Creek, but BC Hydro provides no evidence that this experience should be extrapolated to the whole province.
We note Deloitte’s assessment that 250 MW of potential capacity are available at the reference capital cost of $7,300/kW, with another 750 MW potentially available at $8,800/kW.
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