Springhill Dream: a Geothermal Business Park

Springhill’s desire to capture energy from its former coal mines was given new life today. The Government of Canada has committed to a concept design that could lead to a geothermal business park.

The Atlantic Canada Opportunity Agency (ACOA) has will contribute $125 thousand to the project matched by the Cumberland Energy Authority.

ACOA had previously funded research into mine water geothermal potential in Springhill. It is generally agreed that geothermal energy can significantly reduce energy costs for business and industrial use.

The concept design phase will be completed by DesignPoint Engineering & Surveying Ltd.

Springhill is noted for having some of the deepest coal mines in North America, with depths reaching 1,323 metres. A series of mining disasters forced the closure of the mines in 1958. 

Over the years, the mine tunnels started to flood with water, providing a valuable resource for the community. 

Bill Casey, the area’s Member of Parliament said, “Mine water has been used for geothermal heating and cooling in businesses in Springhill for over 30 years.” 

Ray Hickey the Executive Director of the Cumberland Energy Authority says, “This vital phase of the business park development wouldn’t be possible without the continued financial support from ACOA.” 

The draft concept design will include a plan showing the proposed road layout and lot configurations, water, sanitary and stormwater management systems, active transportation routes, and a district energy system.

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