Calgary-based Ayrton Energy has received a substantial $9.2 million investment from the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) for their groundbreaking technology aimed at revolutionizing hydrogen transport. Ayrton's Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carrier (LOHC) system allows hydrogen gas to be absorbed into an organic carrier oil, simplifying transportation through existing gas infrastructure without the need for expensive modifications. CEO Natasha Kostenuk highlighted the significance of addressing the storage and transportation challenges in the hydrogen economy, emphasizing the potential of LOHC to enable its growth. The LOHC system, developed by a team led by Kostenuk and chief technology officer Brandy Kinkead, operates at room temperature, ensuring safety and stability while also being highly cost-effective. In comparison to traditional methods like compressed or liquid hydrogen, LOHC offers enhanced safety, reusability, and energy efficiency, cutting costs significantly. This innovative approach has garnered support, with Ayrton securing funding to expand its team, facilities, and technology for pilot programs. The investment from BDC, along with previous funds raised by Ayrton and partnerships with industry players like Halliburton, signifies a milestone in advancing hydrogen transportation technology. Ayrton aims to scale up its operations, with plans to demonstrate LOHC capabilities at increasing scales over the coming years, ultimately aiming for large-scale hydrogen transport by 2030. The company's efforts align with Canada's hydrogen strategy and the push towards achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, positioning Ayrton as a key player in the country's energy transition.