Congratulations to Stanley Reitsma who was appointed President of the Ontario Geothermal Association (OGA) at its Board of Directors meeting in December. Stan is a long time member of the OGA Board, has been CEO of GeoSource Energy for 15 years, holds a PhD in Civil Engineering from Queen’s University, and a Master’s degree in Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering from University of Waterloo.
Congratulations also to Jim Bolger who has been President for the past four years and will remain on the Board as Past President. Under his leadership the OGA made numerous positive strides including the recognition of geothermal heating under Cap and Trade and the development of the GreenOn Program, and also the affiliation of the OGA with the HRAI, synergies from which have benefitted both organizations.
Jim, Stan and Martin Luymes (HRAI) also worked toward recognition from the Ontario Energy Board of geothermal as an alternative to ratepayer-based expansion of gas into rural areas. This led to a Memorandum of Understanding with Enbridge Inc., which continues today, and is expected to be renewed.
The Board praised Jim Bolger’s efforts, and thanked him for his service, described by Board Member Ron Wright as “countless hours and dedication to advancing our industry.” Jim said he expects that “Stan is going to do a fantastic job. We’ve agreed that periodic renewal is a good idea. We need a new perspective every once in a while, and I have full confidence that with Stan, the organization is in good hands.”
Meanwhile, as Chair of the selection committee Jim Bolger is looking for volunteers or suggestions for the post of Vice-President. Member ratification of changes will be proposed at the Ontario Geothermal Annual Meeting in 2019.
ADVOCACY
The HRAI/OGA met with Enbridge early this month and has also been in discussion with the new Ontario government about geothermal as a low cost energy option that may be offered as an option by the gas utility in rural areas on a case-by-case basis.
Discussions are also ongoing with Ontario’s Independent Electricity System Operator (IESO) regarding the evolution of the SaveOn Energy program, and with federal government representatives about support and advancement of geothermal heating and cooling.
APRIL OGA CONFERENCE
The OGA Board has also advanced plans for its annual meeting and conference to be held in early April 2019. The conference committee is working feverishly to finalize details and announcements are coming soon. At the December meeting the Board also reviewed the HRAI/OGA affiliation agreement and OGA communication programs, including the newsletter, web site, and customer stories program.
