Interview with Nick Daprocida, CEO of E2E Energy Solutions, Canada
E2E Energy and Novus Earth to Develop Geothermal Project in Canada
E2E Energy Solutions has partnered with Novus Earth to develop the Latitude 53 Hinton geothermal energy project near Hinton, Alberta, with construction scheduled to begin in early 2025. This two-phase initiative aims to utilize geothermal energy for sustainable agriculture and clean electricity generation, strengthening Alberta’s renewable energy landscape.
Here’s what Nick Daprocida, CEO of E2E Energy Solutions, had to say about the project’s unique aspects, its potential for community impact, and the technological innovations driving its success.
Challenges of Adapting EGRRS to Alberta’s Landscape
Nick Daprocida explains the key challenges E2E faces in adapting the Enhanced Geothermal Reservoir Recovery System (EGRRS) to Alberta’s landscape, where geothermal energy remains largely untapped. The main obstacles include:
Depth to Target Temperatures: Reaching the required temperature of 180-200°C at depths of 4-6 kilometres is a significant cost challenge in Alberta. The drilling required to reach these temperatures may make some projects cost-prohibitive.
Reservoir Efficiency: Some reservoirs may not meet the required brine volume due to low permeability. However, E2E mitigates this risk by utilizing data from the oil and gas industry, providing accurate information on aquifers and brine composition.
Induced Seismicity: There is a potential risk of induced seismicity from hydraulic fracturing. To manage this, E2E uses multi-stage fracturing techniques, along with seismic testing and engineering measures.
E2E’s Unique Innovations in Geothermal Energy
According to Daprocida, E2E’s patented EGRRS technology maximizes geothermal energy potential in regions that have traditionally been considered less suitable for large-scale geothermal development. This project stands out due to its scalability and economic sustainability. The EGRRS process enhances previously non-viable aquifers, enabling them to generate sufficient brine and thermal energy for power production. This positions Alberta as a global leader in geothermal energy development.
Community Impact: Job Creation and Economic Growth
The Latitude 53 Hinton project is expected to create significant positive economic impacts in the Hinton and West Yellowhead regions. Phase 1 alone will generate over 200 local jobs related to the construction and operation of the strawberry greenhouse. Over the long term, the project will provide a reliable, sustainable energy source, support local businesses, attract employers with high energy demands (such as data centers), and reduce the region’s reliance on non-renewable energy.
Collaboration with Local Stakeholders
E2E recognizes the importance of building strong partnerships with local stakeholders to maximize the project’s impact. As part of this commitment, they are engaging with government agencies, First Nations communities, and academic institutions such as the University of Calgary’s Energi Simulation Centre for Geothermal Systems Research (GeoS). GeoS will contribute valuable expertise, support research and development, and provide workforce training to ensure that the local community benefits from the opportunities the project will create.
Key Milestones for the Project
The Latitude 53 Hinton project will be completed in two phases. Construction is set to begin in early 2025, with Phase 1 expected to be completed by 2026. During this phase, the project will supply geothermal heat to a 20-acre agricultural facility, marking Alberta’s first large-scale geothermal heat application. Phase 2 will involve the use of E2E’s EGRRS technology to generate up to 15 MW of zero-emission electricity, with full operational capacity expected by 2028. These milestones will demonstrate the feasibility of geothermal power in Canada and pave the way for wider adoption across the country.
Photo Credit: E2E Energy Solutions