Geothermal Resources Act ([RSBC 1996] Chapter 171).

This Act (6 Parts) sets out the legal regime for the exploration and exploitation of geothermal resources, defined in section 1 as "the natural heat of the earth and all substances that derive an added value from it, including steam, water vapour heated by the natural heat of the earth and all substances dissolved in the steam, water or water vapour obtained from a well, but does not include [water less than 80° C or hydrocarbons]". After establishing that ownership of such resources is vested in the Government, the Act prohibits the production of or exploration for a geothermal resource unless under a lease or geothermal rig licence respectively (Part 2). Part 3 spells out conditions and requirements for permits and leases which are a precondition for the granting of leases for the location. Part 5 provides for the payment of royalties and unitization agreements for the operation of a field. Part 6 provides for general matters such as a public register, offences and penalties, minister's power to issue orders and regulations governing the drilling of wells and the production and conservation of geothermal resources.