UBC Okanagan and FortisBC Collaborate on Cutting-Edge Hydrogen Research Lab in B.C.
Key Ideas
  • UBC Okanagan and FortisBC are partnering on a state-of-the-art hydrogen research lab, aiming to advance hydrogen technology in North America.
  • The H2LAB project, with support from various funding sources, focuses on blending hydrogen into gas supplies to support B.C.'s Climate Action Plan.
  • The research aims to significantly reduce dependence on traditional forms of energy like gas, contributing to the decarbonization of the economy.
  • While the lab's impact is promising, the practical application of hydrogen technology in existing gas infrastructure is still several years away.
UBC Okanagan and FortisBC have joined forces to establish a groundbreaking hydrogen research lab in Kelowna, British Columbia. The 'H2LAB' project, located in UBCO’s Innovation Precinct, is a significant step in advancing hydrogen technology in North America. With funding amounting to $2.8 million from UBC, FortisBC, and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada, the 2,000-square-foot lab is poised to play a crucial role in exploring the integration of hydrogen into gas supplies. This initiative aligns with B.C.'s Climate Action Plan, aiming to enhance the sustainability of energy consumption for homes and businesses. The research conducted by UBCO's team, led by assistant professor Joshua Brinkerhoff and supported by FortisBC's director of innovation, Jamie King, seeks to pave the way for a greener, low-carbon future by reducing reliance on gas-based energy. The ultimate goal is to decarbonize the economy, with the potential for hydrogen to revolutionize energy sources. Despite the optimism surrounding the project, practical implementation remains a future prospect, with challenges such as meeting regulatory standards and ensuring safe hydrogen delivery through existing gas infrastructure. The collaborative efforts between UBC Okanagan and FortisBC signify a significant stride towards energy innovation and sustainability, with the research conducted at the lab holding promise for a more environmentally friendly energy landscape in the years to come.
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