Workshop focuses on geothermal use in aquaculture
June 12, 2014
By Tom Walker
Earlier this spring the Canadian Geothermal Energy Association (CanGEA) held its annual geothermal conference in Calgary, Alberta. The conference included a one day workshop focusing on how geothermal energy can be utilized in aquaculture and aquaponics operations.
Dr. John Lund, Director of the Geo-Heat Center at Oregon Institute of Technology lead the workshop. He is a world expert of direct heat-use and wrote the book about geothermal direct heat-use and is known around the globe for his expertise on geothermal applications. This was the first time he had been brought to Canada to provide applicable knowledge about this renewable energy source in aquaculture.
The purpose of the workshop was to introduce fundamental principles and step-by-step processes used around the world to tap heat directly from the earth for use in aquaculture.
Dr. Lund referenced several projects using geothermal energy such as salmon and trout hatcheries in Iceland, tilapia and bass in Idaho and California, and freshwater prawns grown in New Zealand.
He also spoke about opportunities for project development in Canada, various financing tools and real-world examples and case studies.
CanGEA is a non-profit industry association representing the interests of its member companies with the primary goal of unlocking Canada’s geothermal energy potential. The association promotes the industry and the potential of geothermal energy in Canada through outreach events, research, policy work and representation of Canadian interests internationally.
Contact David Kunz, (david@cangea.ca), Geothermal Direct Heat Use Specialist, if you would like further information about geothermal energy use in aquaculture.
