Alberta Clean Energy Projects Receive $11 Million in Federal Funding
Key Ideas
- Eleven clean energy projects in Alberta receive $11 million in federal funding, with a focus on hydrogen and small modular nuclear reactors.
- Interest in low-carbon hydrogen continues to grow, with over 80 projects in development and an estimated economic opportunity of over $100 billion in Canada.
- Report by the Pembina Institute and Simon Fraser University highlights Canada's progress towards net-zero emissions by 2050, commending federal and select provincial governments.
- Despite progress, Alberta and Saskatchewan are identified as lagging behind in supporting the energy transition towards clean energy sources.
Eleven clean energy projects, primarily based in Alberta, have been chosen to receive a total of $11 million in federal funding, as announced by Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson in Calgary. The funding includes $2.5 million for small modular nuclear reactor research at the University of Alberta and University of Regina, and the remaining $8.5 million allocated to seven Alberta companies focusing on hydrogen-related projects. This funding supports initiatives such as developing a commercial 100% hydrogen-heated building, converting heavy-duty diesel truck engines to hydrogen engines, and producing clean hydrogen from natural gas using shock-wave heating without emitting carbon dioxide.
The growing interest in low-carbon hydrogen is evident, with over 80 projects in various stages of development and a significant estimated economic opportunity exceeding $100 billion in Canada. Minister Wilkinson emphasized the potential of hydrogen as a clean energy source that aligns with energy security and climate objectives. Both hydrogen and small modular nuclear reactors are key areas of focus as Canada aims for net-zero emissions by 2050.
A recent report by the Pembina Institute and Simon Fraser University indicates that Canada is making substantial progress towards its emission reduction goals, crediting government policies that promote the transition to clean energy. However, while the federal government, B.C., and Quebec receive praise for their support, Alberta and Saskatchewan are noted as needing to catch up in advancing the energy transition. The report suggests that if current plans and policies are maintained, Canada could significantly cut emissions by the end of the decade.
Topics
Utilities
Government Policies
Clean Energy
Net Zero Emissions
Energy Transition
Research
Economic Opportunity
Federal Funding
Low Carbon Fuels
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