PacifiCan funding will stimulate the growth of Central and
Northern B.C.'s hydrogen industry and boost Canada's clean energy transition
PRINCE GEORGE, BC, July 17, 2024 /CNW/ - As countries around
the world work to transform their energy sectors and move towards a
sustainable future, the Government of Canada is creating opportunities to harness
regional resources, grow local talent, and drive clean energy
innovation in British
Columbia.
Today, the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency
Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic
Development Agency of Canada
(PacifiCan) announced $150,000 in
PacifiCan funding for the City of Prince
George to support the development of a regional hydrogen hub
for Central and Northern B.C.
Prince George is strategically
positioned to take advantage of the expanding hydrogen economy due
to its regional transportation advantages, including proximity to
major highways, rail transport, and an international airport. This
hub will extend along the Highway 16 West Corridor to Prince Rupert, presenting an opportunity to
create jobs and increase business revenues through new investments
in the region.
PacifiCan funding will help the City
of Prince George identify local hydrogen assets, attract
investment for low-carbon initiatives, and support regional
research and community engagement. This work will ensure that
Northern B.C. can capitalize on the exciting hydrogen potential in
the region, attract advanced industries and establish a network of
hydrogen producers, consumers, and infrastructure. This will
accelerate the adoption of hydrogen as a clean and efficient energy
source, reinforcing British
Columbia's role as a leader in sustainable development.
The new hub will help achieve the goal of Canada's Hydrogen Strategy to have 30 per cent
of Canada's end-use energy be from
clean hydrogen by 2050. It also supports the Government of
Canada's goal to reduce greenhouse
gas emissions and reach net-zero by 2050.
Quotes
"The City of Prince George is
dedicated to pioneering solutions that mitigate climate impacts and
advance regional prosperity. By collaborating with local
stakeholders and leveraging its strategic transportation
infrastructure, the City is well positioned to lead the way in
sustainable energy innovation and create lasting benefits for
communities throughout Central and Northern B.C."
- "The
Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and
Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of
Canada
"The Northern B.C. hydrogen hub development is a transformative
initiative poised to link regional hydrogen demand and supply,
driving economic growth through job creation in construction,
operations, and maintenance of hydrogen facilities and
infrastructure. This forward-thinking endeavor not only supports
local industries but also positions Northern British Columbia at the forefront of
clean energy innovation and sustainability."
-
Simon Yu, Mayor, City of Prince George
Quick Facts
- More than 50% of Canada's
hydrogen and fuel-cell companies are in B.C. They account for
nearly 60% of Canadian research investment in hydrogen and
fuel-cell development.
- PacifiCan is the federal economic development agency dedicated
to British Columbians. PacifiCan works with partners who are
building innovative businesses, creating quality jobs, and
supporting inclusive growth throughout British
Columbia.
- The Regional Innovation Ecosystems (RIE) program creates, grows
and nurtures inclusive regional ecosystems that support business
needs throughout the innovation continuum, and fosters an
entrepreneurial environment conducive to innovation, growth and
competitiveness.
Associated Links:
- PacifiCan
- Regional Innovation Ecosystems
- City of Prince
George
- The Hydrogen Strategy for Canada
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SOURCE Pacific Economic Development Canada