Drone-enabled Geothermal Energy Exploration

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The goal of this project is to apply rigorous geoscience methodologies and drone-based geospatial technologies to fully characterize an existing hot spring occurrence in the Central Kootenay region of BC. The study area surrounding Crawford Bay, BC is situated between two regional, deep seated normal faults, with the research area of interest potentially representing a step-over fault zone. This structural configuration, the proximity to nearby hot springs and the pervasive evidence of faulting apparent on a preliminary review of open source lidar data suggest the area makes for a compelling pilot project to test the feasibility of developing a geothermal heat source for sustainable clean energy. The objective is to conduct a multifaceted geotechnical survey, focusing on the position and structural orientation of faults and related fracture systems. Data gathered in the field will help researchers develop a geological and geothermal model and understand the relative timing of different fracture sets and how they may connect to more regional, deep-rooted fault systems capable of bringing heated geothermal fluids in closer proximity to the surface. Conducting such a concerted effort to characterize a local spring system has only been done a few times in Canada and this particular effort makes use of new technology (drones). A drone is most useful as a tool to characterize a localized geothermal system for the following reasons:- Lidar data can identify fault and fracture lineaments, which can be compared to field mapping;- Drone lidar is higher resolution and less expensive than traditional airborne lidar, and fills an existing data gap in the study area; - Infrared imagery can determine if spring discharge occurs along a linear feature, which may be correlated to the lidar and field-based fault mapping; - Infrared imagery could potentially estimate energy content (volume x heat) of the spring, helpful in estimating geothermal system size. The ultimate expected outcome of Phase 2 will be site-specific data, high grading a prospective target, hopefully with enough confirmatory evidence to support a case for drilling at least one future test well. This project should be regarded as a test case evaluating the potential for geothermal as a sustainable, emissions-free commercial development to support the economic viability of a remote and rural community and supplement agricultural diversification.