Ekona Power, a British Columbia-based company, has received a significant financial boost of $1 million from the federal government through the Clean Fuels and Industrial Fuel Switching program. This funding was allocated to support Ekona's development of turquoise hydrogen production technology, specifically focusing on a methane pyrolysis process to extract hydrogen and solid carbon from natural gas. Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson emphasized the importance of hydrogen in achieving net-zero targets, particularly in challenging sectors like long-haul trucking. Hydrogen production methods involve green (from water and renewable electricity) and blue (from natural gas with carbon capture and sequestration) pathways, each facing unique challenges. Ekona's methane pyrolysis technology stands out as it eliminates the need for costly carbon capture and sequestration, producing hydrogen and solid carbon, termed as "turquoise." This approach not only reduces carbon emissions but also offers a cost-effective solution for industrial applications. Ekona's xCaliber reactor has garnered attention for its potential to revolutionize hydrogen production by leveraging existing natural gas infrastructure effectively. The company attracted $79 million in a Series A venture capital raise, showcasing confidence in its innovative technology. Collaborating with Arc Resources, Ekona is set to construct a demonstration reactor at Arc's Gold Creek natural gas plant, with commissioning scheduled for 2025. Minister Wilkinson highlighted the significance of Ekona's technology in enabling ultra-low carbon hydrogen production without the need for carbon capture or sequestration. This advancement could have global implications, allowing regions without geological sequestration potential to benefit from sustainable hydrogen production. Ekona's commitment to delivering affordable low-carbon intensity hydrogen has positioned them as a key player in the transition towards cleaner energy solutions.