Calgary hosts global geothermal energy conference
Premier Danielle Smith opened the World Geothermal Congress, pitching Alberta's drilling expertise and low-tax environment to leaders from 88 countries.
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Alberta Premier Danielle Smith opened the 2026 World Geothermal Congress in Calgary on Monday, telling delegates from 88 countries that the province's drilling expertise, resource base, and low-tax environment position it as a strong contender for global geothermal investment.
The event, held only eight times in 32 years, brings together industry leaders, researchers, and policymakers to advance geothermal technology and discuss its role in low-emission power systems. The four-day congress runs through Thursday at the Telus Convention Centre.
Smith emphasized Alberta's potential to drive breakthroughs that could make geothermal power more efficient and widely accessible. "If we can find that breakthrough technology that gets us there faster and more cost-effectively, that really opens up the potential for geothermal, for power anywhere in the world," she said.
Highlighting Alberta's drilling capabilities as a key advantage in the global geothermal sector, Smith stressed the province's motivation to develop new solutions that expand power supply while addressing environmental and cost concerns. She also spoke about strengthening international partnerships, saying Alberta aims to position itself as a provider of reliable and affordable power.
One notable initiative: the province is exploring the possibility of opening a European office in Brussels to complement its existing international presence. "If we can find a way to increase everybody's power use and do so in a way that adds to the existing supply, creates new opportunities, but also addresses some of the environmental issues and availability and cost issues, that's the perfect type of power source," she said.