The Cumberland clean energy project in Cumberland, British Columbia, is pioneering the use of abandoned coal mines as geothermal energy sources. By harnessing the stable temperatures of underground mine water, the project aims to provide low-emission heating and cooling solutions for homes, municipal buildings, and affordable housing developments. This innovative approach not only addresses the environmental challenges posed by past coal mining but also offers a pathway for economic recovery in communities affected by the decline of extraction industries. Researchers from the University of Victoria and the Accelerating Community Energy Transformation initiative are optimistic that this geothermal system can reduce greenhouse gas emissions while lowering future infrastructure costs. As Cumberland reinterprets its industrial legacy, it sets a precedent for other former mining communities worldwide, demonstrating that old extraction sites can become valuable assets in the clean energy transition. The project also highlights the potential for geothermal systems to alleviate energy costs, particularly for lower-income households, thereby enhancing social resilience alongside environmental sustainability.