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Feds pledge $43 million to scale up clean tech, with benefits for Canfor

March 14, 2017 - The federal government has committed up to $43 million to support clean energy projects at the pre-commercialization stage.

B.C.-based Canfor Pulp Products Inc. is receiving $13-million through Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) to further develop and demonstrate its biofuels project. The resulting biocrude could be refined by existing refineries into next-generation biofuels and biochemicals that can be easily integrated into conventional fuels markets.

"We have the opportunity to create a truly renewable biofuel that can easily integrate with conventional fuels to dramatically lower environmental impacts. This funding from SDTC provides critical support as we look to operationalize this truly transformative green technology," Martin Pudlas, vice-president of operations for Canfor Pulp Products Inc., said in a news release.

Another $20-million investment was announced by Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development. The $20 million is half of a $40-million joint initiative that will be matched by British Columbia. The aim is to help companies with projects at the prototype, field testing and demonstration stages.

Applications for the new funding will be accepted in early April 2017 by SDTC.

In addition to Canfor, Bains also announced funding for another B.C. company developing clean technology.

The Automotive Fuel Cell Cooperation (AFCC), a Burnaby-based joint venture with Germany's Daimler AG and Ford Motor Company is receiving $10 million to develop new automotive fuel cell modules. The technology has the potential to reduce the difference in cost between fuel cell and combustion engine vehicles. The project has drawn over $70 million in global investment into Canada, for a total project value of $88 million.

"Canadian companies are partnering to lead on clean technology innovation, from fuel cells to biofuels. The investments announced today will create new jobs and provide environmental benefits to British Columbians and all Canadians," Leah Lawrence, president and CEO of STDC, said in the release.


March 14, 2017  By Maria Church



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