Overview:

In The Driller Newscast Episode 152, we discover how geothermal energy is powering the clean energy future. Brock Yordy sits down with Paul Frith, President of the Ontario Geothermal Association, where they explore why this renewable resource is gaining traction and what it will take to scale it worldwide. Geothermal isn’t just part of the solution; it’s a foundation for sustainable progress. 

Key points:

• Why geothermal is ideal for heating and cooling
• How policy and investment can drive adoption
• The role of education and youth in growing the workforce
• Real-world examples of geothermal systems in action
• Why collaboration across industries is essential

Read on for a more detailed recap of our discussion this week.

 

As climate action intensifies across North America, regional and local solutions are taking center stage. During a packed season of climate-focused events, from New York City’s Climate Week to agricultural innovations in Massachusetts, Toronto joined the ranks by hosting its inaugural Toronto Climate Week, and geothermal energy had a well-earned seat at the table.

At the center of this movement is Paul Frith, newly elected president of the Ontario Geothermal Association (OGA). Frith, a 14-year veteran of the geothermal sector and passionate industry advocate, joined The Driller Newscast with Brock Yordy to reflect on Climate Week, the future of geo-exchange, and what’s next for clean heating and cooling in Canada and beyond.

Frith’s rise to OGA president wasn’t exactly planned - but it was inevitable. As someone deeply committed to geothermal advocacy and networking, he’s been on the board for three years and has led numerous efforts to amplify the voice of the industry.

“I warned everybody,” Frith joked. “I’m going to yell from the rooftops… I’m going to be loud, I’m going to make mistakes, but I’m going to grow it.”

Frith credits his “amazing” board and new member benefits program for expanding engagement and pushing geothermal into the mainstream. With a strong focus on diversity, partnerships, and community involvement, he’s clear that geothermal’s future isn’t a solo act. It’s a team effort.

Toronto’s Climate Week was packed with events ranging from clean tech panels to tours of operational geo-exchange systems. Frith played a pivotal role, connecting organizers with major geothermal projects like the University of Toronto and Mattamy Homes, the latter being North America’s largest privately held home builder.

Frith himself spoke on an energy and transportation panel, where he helped educate attendees, including elected officials, on the practicalities of ground-source heat pumps, building electrification, and the critical role of thermal energy in meeting Canada’s climate goals.

“The event was sold out,” Frith noted. “For a first-time event, that’s a huge success… and shows the growing interest in real, local climate solutions.”

Ontario is ahead of the curve. According to Frith, geothermal systems now make up 30% of the multi-residential new build market in Toronto, a dramatic rise from just 2% a few years ago.

That growth didn’t happen by accident. Strong advocacy, technology visibility, and collaboration with the real estate and construction industries have made geothermal a more familiar and viable option. Tours of systems like the one at the University of Toronto give policymakers and the public a tangible sense of how geothermal works and why it matters.

Still, Frith emphasizes humility. “We’re not the only solution,” he said. “But we’re one of the best when it comes to reducing carbon and improving building resilience.”

One tough question: How do we make the case for geothermal in rural areas, where infrastructure is less developed and heating still depends on propane or coal?

Frith points to grid resiliency and energy equity. Ground-source heat pumps still rely on electricity, and in areas where outages are more common or backup systems are limited, the argument shifts to storage, solar integration, and smart grid design.

“There’s no one-size-fits-all,” Frith explained. “But we can’t ignore these communities. We need solutions that scale to everyone, not just big cities.”

Investing in the Future Workforce

Frith also made a passionate call to engage young people in the geothermal industry. With climate goals looming, there's an urgent need for more drillers, mechanical contractors, engineers, and project managers to meet future demand.

He praised institutions like Fleming College in Ontario for their drilling programs and hopes to see more curriculum, training, and outreach across Canada and the U.S.

“We need to talk directly to students,” he said. “We’re going to need them. All of them. If we’re going to scale this up, that means better messaging, more exposure, and clearer career paths.”

What’s Next for the OGA and North American Collaboration?

While some of Frith’s future plans are still under wraps, he hinted at exciting cross-border initiatives and deeper collaboration with U.S.-based geothermal groups. The goal is to break silos, align messaging, and push policy that supports geothermal across North America.

“There's a lot happening behind the scenes,” Frith said. “I can't wait to share more when the time is right.”

He also stressed that it’s time for industry veterans to mentor, educate, and pass the torch to the next generation. “We won’t be here forever,” he said. “Let’s build something that lasts.”

In the face of political shifts, aging infrastructure, and climate urgency, Frith remains optimistic. “It’s a holistic approach,” he said. “Let’s work together. Solar, wind, geothermal, all of it. And let’s make sure every community has access to clean, reliable energy.”

His message is clear: It’s time to stop talking and start building. Together.

 

Thanks for joining us.

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