Geothermal Energy in Nova Scotia
Geothermal energy is extracted by using the heat of underground sources to generate steam, which rotates a turbine and creates electricity. Conventional earth or geothermal energy from hot springs does not exist in Nova Scotia as the heat is not strong enough to create steam to drive electrical generators. Abandoned mines in Nova Scotia, however, contain warm water that can be used to heat homes, businesses, and institutions. In Springhill, Nova Scotia, warm water from an abandoned mine is used to heat portions of the Springhill Industrial Park through eight heat pump systems. About 3 per cent of Nova Scotia's energy is generated from the Earth itself.
Groundwater and ground-source heat pumps have been installed in a number of homes and institutional and commercial facilities throughout the province. Generally, these systems are most cost effective in buildings that must heat and cool for effective year-round climate control.
Learn more about geothermal energy at the Canadian GeoExchange Coalition website.