By Blair Nielsen, Account Manager, Scovan, with Andrea Warren, Project Coordinator & Media & Communications Specialist, Deh Tai LP., and the Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal team
Blair Nielsen: To begin, could you tell us a bit about your roles within Deh Tai and the Fort Nelson First Nation, and what inspired you and the Nation to pursue this ambitious geothermal project and the wider portfolio of ventures under Deh Tai?
Andrea Warren: Within Deh Tai and Fort Nelson First Nation, I serve as the Project Manager and Media & Communications Specialist for Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal. My role involves project coordination, budgeting, and managing communications to align our initiatives with our vision of sustainable energy sovereignty. Taylor Behn-Tsakoza, our Community Liaison & Research Specialist, ensures ongoing engagement and research that reflect the community’s values and needs. Cyndi Bonn, our Training and Employment Coordinator, oversees skill development initiatives, ensuring community members are prepared to take on roles within this and future projects.
Our inspiration to pursue this geothermal project and the wider Deh Tai portfolio stems from a shared vision within the Nation to create a resilient, self-sustaining future for our people. Harnessing geothermal energy will allow us to address energy security and independence while promoting Indigenous-led innovation in clean energy. This project and Deh Tai’s broader ventures represent our commitment to economic resilience and environmental stewardship, blending modern technology with traditional values.
For our community, these initiatives mean more than just economic opportunity—they embody a future of self-reliance, cultural pride, and resilience. For Indigenous-led innovation in the energy sector, our work signals a new chapter, showcasing the expertise and leadership our communities bring to the global transition toward sustainable energy.
BN: Deh Tai’s commercial model seems uniquely tailored to balance economic development with sustainability and cultural values. Can you share more about this model and how it supports Fort Nelson First Nation’s vision for self-reliance and community empowerment?

AW: Deh Tai Limited Partnership was formed in 2018 by Fort Nelson First Nation. Under the direction of the Deh Tai board of directors, Deh Tai’s role is management the Nation’s for-profit business ventures, employment and training matters related to economic development projects and business development ventures. The business structure separates business activities, such as Tu Deh- Kah Geothermal, from the Nation eliminating any liability exposure. Our mission is to develop and grow profitable, sustainable business ventures while providing career opportunities for members of the Nation. As Deh Tai becomes more established and its group of ventures expands it will provide economic independence.
BN: Deh Tai’s portfolio is impressive, ranging from renewable energy to civil construction, hospitality, and land development. How does the diversity of ventures like Peak Renewables, Eh Cho Dene, and your hospitality businesses contribute to long-term resilience and growth?
AW: Deh Tai has a number of companies such as Eh Cho Dene, a very successful civil construction company with a 40+ year operating history, an on reserve gravel operation, Dene Gravel and the Liard Hot Springs Lodge at Mile 497 of the Alaska Highway, providing lodging, RV spots, restaurant and fuel for Alaska Highway travellers. In Fort Nelson the Fort Nelson Hotel and associated commercial and residential operations was acquired in 2018, and more recently the development of a geothermal power project is under way in the Clarke Lake depleted natural gas field adjacent to the Nation.
Sustainable logging operations are being assessed along with related projects such as wood pellets or off-cut material in biomass opportunities. The Nation holds a large block of land on Vancouver Island slated for commercial development in the coming years.
BN: With nearly $40.5 million in federal funding, including support from NRCan’s Emerging Renewable Power Program, what have been some of the key milestones so far in developing the Clarke Lake Geothermal Project? Are there specific challenges that the project has encountered, and how have they been addressed?
AW: The Clarke Lake gas field was known to be a ‘hot’ field with flowlines bare in the frigid winter temperatures as the snow would melt off and around them. Initial research indicated a strong possibility of geothermal potential under the gas field in the brine aquifer 2 ½ km under the ground. Key milestones have been acquisition of a depleted natural gas well in late 2020 that was deepened from 1800 metres to 2450 metres, converted to a water injection well and the drilling of a full size geothermal well on the same well pad. Over 2021 and 2022 the production well was tested to prove up the reserve through a high volume pump test, an extended pump test 30+ days and well logging and measurement. This work proved the resource with downhole temperatures around 125°C and ability to deliver 114°C brine to surface.
Initial issues were getting field work carried out during COVID and our remote location in Fort Nelson. Logistics of getting people and equipment to the area and testing completed. Based on the 160+ wells drilled in Clarke Lake from the 1960’s we anticipated a certain low level of natural gas in brine. What we experienced was much higher and has led to rethinking our engineering to handle both hot brine and natural gas. Our initial field layout completed and costed was economic but, wanting to improve the economics, we have moved to a smaller surface footprint which will save capital costs and minimize surface disturbance.
This work is being finalized now as we move to permitting the well sites, resource gathering system (pipelines) and power plant working with Fort Nelson First Nations Lands Department.
BN: Beyond providing clean energy, what are some ways the project will benefit the Fort Nelson community? How will economic development, employment, and training opportunities be integrated to empower the local workforce?

AW: The Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal project will benefit the Fort Nelson community in several ways. It will attract investment, diversify the local economy, and create business opportunities. The project will also generate jobs in construction, engineering, and ongoing operations for local workers. Workforce development programs will provide training in geothermal energy, offering hands-on experience and mentorship to build local capacity. By prioritizing local hiring and contractors, the project ensures that the community directly benefits. Additionally, the use of geothermal energy will reduce energy costs and provide long-term, reliable power, contributing to a resilient economy. The project will also empower the community by engaging youth and Elders, integrating traditional knowledge with modern technology.
AW: The Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal project will benefit the Fort Nelson community in several ways. It will attract investment, diversify the local economy, and create business opportunities. The project will also generate jobs in construction, engineering, and ongoing operations for local workers. Workforce development programs will provide training in geothermal energy, offering hands-on experience and mentorship to build local capacity. By prioritizing local hiring and contractors, the project ensures that the community directly benefits. Additionally, the use of geothermal energy will reduce energy costs and provide long-term, reliable power, contributing to a resilient economy. The project will also empower the community by engaging youth and Elders, integrating traditional knowledge with modern technology.
BN: Deh Tai has formed joint ventures with organizations like Peak Renewables and other specialized partners. How have these partnerships helped Deh Tai expand its capabilities, and what do you look for in potential partners for new initiatives?
AW: Deh Tai partners with organizations that bring knowledge and skills to the Nation that can be transferred to our members. We seek to be full partners with an equity stake in the business ventures and the opportunity to acquire more over time, and potentially 100% of the business. All business arrangements include maximizing the use of Fort Nelson First Nation (FNFN) businesses and member owned businesses in our projects as they are being developed. For example, logging has not taken place in Fort Nelson for an extended period of time. We have worked with two forestry companies to cut two fire breaks around Fort Nelson and more recently have carried out wildfire salvage operations on a pilot basis.
BN: The Clarke Lake Geothermal Project is within Treaty 8 territory. How does the project align with the Nation’s values regarding environmental stewardship and cultural preservation? Are there specific measures taken to honour these values?
AW: The Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal project aligns with Treaty 8 values by focusing on both environmental stewardship and cultural preservation. The project repurposes the Clarke Lake gas field for geothermal energy, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and supporting sustainable resource management. It also honours the Nation’s heritage through the name “Tu Deh-Kah” (“Water Steam”), reflecting the community’s deep connection to the land. The project actively engages youth and Elders, ensuring the integration of traditional knowledge. As a 100% Indigenous owned and operated initiative, Tu Deh-Kah is fully committed to respecting and upholding the Nation’s values.
BN: The focus on renewable energy, forestry, and responsible land development suggests a strong commitment to sustainability. How does Deh Tai integrate sustainability principles across different ventures, especially in areas like logging and land holdings?
AW: Deh Tai LP works closely with the FNFN Lands Department, following their comprehensive Land Management Framework, which sets high standards for land stewardship. As the proponent of the Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal project, we adhere to these same guidelines, ensuring that our operations align with both environmental and community values. We take a holistic approach to resource use, similar to the saying, “use the whole moose,” meaning that we harvest every part of the resource. In the case of the geothermal project, we are not only extracting heat from the geothermal wells but also utilizing natural gas when possible. This natural gas is used to offset parasitic power load generated by electric submersible pumps or to provide additional heat to optimize the geothermal power plant. The first phase of heat harvesting focuses on the heat exchangers in the power plant, while future phases will include a cascade of heat opportunities, such as heating buildings, greenhouses, and potentially a spa or onsen-style pools. There is also potential for critical mineral extraction from the brine, if concentrations are sufficient. Finally, after the heat is extracted, the cooled brine is returned to the aquifer to be reheated, completing the cycle and ensuring sustainable use of the resource.
BN: Once operational, the geothermal plant is expected to produce 7 to 10 megawatts of electricity. Are there plans to expand the project further or explore additional renewable energy projects within the region?
AW: Once the initial plant has been commissioned we will seek opportunities to expand the power generation capacity by drilling more wells and installing more power generation capacity. Initially we plan to supply power for the NRRM which will replace natural gas generated power thereby reducing CO2 emissions. The additional power can be used to expand the industrial base by providing power to sawmills, data centres, hydrogen generation, biofuels opportunities. As LNG exports grow on the west coast of British Columbia the production of natural gas will move north from the Montney to the Horne River and Liard Basins and those facilities will require power.
BN: With Deh Tai’s mandate to oversee Fort Nelson First Nation’s for-profit ventures and economic initiatives, how does this geothermal project align with the broader vision of economic self-sufficiency and innovation?
AW: The Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal project aligns closely with Deh Tai LP’s broader vision of economic self-sufficiency and innovation by creating sustainable, long-term economic opportunities for the Fort Nelson First Nation. It directly supports the goal of making the region and the Nation power self-sufficient, reducing reliance on external energy sources. The project not only provides clean and reliable energy but also contributes to food security through planned greenhouses, which will support both the Nation and the surrounding region, while also offering potential for commercial expansion. Additionally, the geothermal project will create approximately 25 full-time positions in the power plant, along with jobs associated with other initiatives, including the greenhouses and other ventures under review. This approach fosters innovation by exploring value-added opportunities, such as using geothermal heat for greenhouses, spas, and potentially critical mineral extraction. By developing and controlling such resources, the project ensures the First Nation’s long-term financial sustainability and strengthens its position as a leader in renewable energy and economic growth.



BN: Deh Tai’s success has set an example for Indigenous-led economic development. What advice would you offer other First Nations or Indigenous groups looking to pursue similar ventures, and what do you hope to achieve as a leader in this space?
AW: Deh Tai’s success in leading the Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal project sets a strong example for Indigenous-led economic development, showcasing how combining traditional knowledge with innovative, sustainable technologies can create lasting benefits. For other First Nations or Indigenous groups looking to pursue similar ventures, our advice would be to prioritize collaboration within the community and with external partners who share your values. Deh Tai’s structure encourages forming partnerships with organizations seeking to enter the territory and carry out business activities. These partnerships must align with the Nation’s community goals for development, ensuring that all activities are sustainable and respectful of the community’s traditions and values.
Additionally, it’s vital to invest in capacity-building and education for community members, particularly youth, to ensure they have the skills and knowledge needed to lead such projects in the future. Empowering the next generation is key to maintaining the sustainability of the venture and strengthening community resilience.
As leaders in this space, we hope to continue demonstrating that Indigenous-led projects can not only succeed but also lead the way in innovation, sustainability, and economic independence. Through projects like Tu Deh-Kah, we aim to set a precedent for other Indigenous communities, showing that we can take control of our economic futures while honouring our cultural heritage. Our goal is to inspire more First Nations to embrace clean energy solutions and sustainable development, paving the way for a brighter and more self-sufficient future.
BN: What strategies are in place to engage and train the local workforce across Deh Tai’s initiatives, particularly in sectors like civil construction, renewable energy, and hospitality? How is this helping Fort Nelson First Nation build long-term expertise and economic independence?
AW: Tu Deh-Kah hopes to offer local expertise and a skilled workforce within Fort Nelson First Nation through various initiatives. In civil construction, we plan on providing hands-on training and apprenticeship programs, allowing local workers to gain experience on projects like the Tu Deh-Kah Geothermal power plant. In renewable energy, we hope to offer specialized training in geothermal technology and operations to build technical expertise. We are not only repurposing abandoned gas wells but also repurposing oil and gas assets, such as workers. Many community members have taken power engineering training, which supports the transition to renewable energy. In hospitality, we plan on developing skills in customer service and management for potential initiatives like spas and greenhouses. These training opportunities aim to empower community members, reduce reliance on external labor, and promote long-term economic independence and sustainability.
BN: The Fort Hotel and Laird Hotsprings Lodge are not only business ventures but also community hubs. How do these entities support the Nation’s economic goals and provide cultural and social value to the community and visitors alike?
AW: They are being transitioned to provide cultural and social value to the community from being purely business ventures. We are working to make them showcases of the Nation.
BN: Thank you for your time and insights.
Originally published in IGNITE V9.