Regina Breaks Ground on $285.1 Million Indoor Aquatic Facility

The City of Regina has commenced construction on its new Indoor Aquatic Facility (IAF), incorporating an innovative geothermal heating system. This project aims to enhance sustainability and reduce emissions, marking a significant advancement in renewable energy initiatives in Canada. According to geologist Erik Nickel, the geothermal aspect of the facility signifies a pivotal step for the province. Nickel, who serves as the chief operating officer at the Petroleum Technology Research Centre (PTRC), co-authored the preliminary feasibility study that facilitated federal funding for the project through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program (ICIP).

The geothermal system is a crucial component in securing approximately $285.1 million in funding, with a dedicated budget of $28.5 million specifically for the geothermal aspect. As of August, the city reports that this budget remains on track, with $14.7 million sourced from federal and provincial contributions. The IAF is projected to open its doors in 2029.

Geothermal Energy: A Viable Resource in Saskatchewan

Regina’s geographical positioning makes it particularly well-suited for geothermal energy extraction, as it lies above the expansive underground saline aquifer known as the Deadwood formation. This formation spans tens of thousands of square kilometers across Alberta and Saskatchewan and extends into South Dakota. Nickel describes Regina as being in a “Goldilocks zone,” where the geothermal water is sufficiently hot without the prohibitive drilling costs associated with deeper sources.

In contrast, the city of Estevan has already initiated its geothermal project, requiring extensive drilling to access the resource. Nickel noted that if Saskatoon were to pursue a similar initiative, it would face challenges due to the lower temperatures and shallower depths of its geothermal resources.

Geological research into Regina’s geothermal potential dates back to a test well drilled at the University of Regina in 1979. Although the initial project did not proceed due to financial constraints, the data collected provided valuable insights into the aquifer’s characteristics. PTRC utilized this information alongside data from the Co-op Refinery Complex and wastewater injection wells in potash mining to inform their evaluations.

How the Geothermal Heating System Works

The geothermal heating system will utilize heated brine water extracted from the Deadwood formation. This process involves drilling two wells to a depth of approximately 2,200 meters, spaced about one kilometer apart at their base to access water heated to around 60 degrees Celsius. Pumps will bring the hot water to the surface, where it will be processed through a heat exchanger before being reinjected into the aquifer.

This method replaces the need for a natural gas boiler, which would have otherwise heated the IAF’s pool and facilities. Nickel emphasized that while this technology is not new, its application in Canada remains limited. He pointed out that similar systems are widely used in northern Europe, particularly in the Netherlands and France.

The PTRC anticipates that the geothermal resources from the Deadwood aquifer could supply heated water for up to 70 years, well within the expected lifespan of the aquatic facility. Initial estimates suggest that utilizing geothermal energy will reduce carbon dioxide emissions by approximately 8,829 tonnes annually, equivalent to removing 2,355 cars from the roads.

Currently, the city plans to implement geothermal energy solely for the aquatic centre, but there is potential for expansion to additional facilities. Future modelling will be necessary to assess the aquifer’s longevity and the feasibility of using the same wells for other projects.

Nickel attributes the underutilization of geothermal energy in Canada to high initial drilling costs and the convenience of natural gas. However, he believes that the success of the IAF project could encourage other municipalities to explore similar renewable energy initiatives. “Once this domino falls, I think we’ll see it all throughout southern Saskatchewan,” he stated.

As Regina embarks on this ambitious project, it sets a precedent for the use of geothermal energy in urban infrastructure, showcasing the potential for sustainable development in the region.