Deep Earth Energy has announced they have started drilling for their geothermal project near Torquay which could pave the way for more projects in the southeast. this has left many feeling optimistic about the economic future of the area. 

"It is great news," shared Jackie Wall, Executive Director with the Estevan Chamber of Commerce. "It's nice to see some new industry and technology. It's not a new way to produce energy but it's new in this area."

"We've met several times with Deep Energy through the economic development committee and saw a presentation made by them and it's a really exciting way to source energy. It's great that they are in this area. Anytime there is new investment within Estevan and area, it's always fantastic."

However, she doesn't feel that this project will be the same job creator that the other power producers are. 

"Obviously in the interim, when you're dealing with construction and getting things set up, yes it will definitely bring some new business as far as employment, unfortunately with geothermal, there isn't a lot of employees needed to produce that kind of energy. But if this initial project gets underway and it's successful, it's very easy to expand."

She added that the project will likely need supplies and materials from local businesses.  

"Anytime we can have any kind of new investment and industry, it is very, very optimistic. We do have all the lines here and all the distribution for power in our area so the more different forms of energy that we can attract here, the better."

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