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Nano One Secures $18M in Québec Support for Battery Innovation

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Nano One Materials Candiac, a subsidiary of cleantech leader Nano One Materials, has received $18 million in funding from the Government of Québec to advance its lithium-ion battery technology.

This includes a $15 million loan from the Ministry of the Economy, Innovation and Energy (MEIE) through Investissement Québec and a $3 million grant from the Ministry of the Environment, the Fight against Climate Change, Wildlife and Parks (MELCCFP).

The funding will support the piloting and commercialization of Nano One’s patented One-Pot™ process, as well as the expansion of its lithium iron phosphate (LFP) production facility in Candiac, Québec. The One-Pot process integrates key production steps, reducing costs, energy use, and environmental impacts.

Nano One CEO Dan Blondal praised Québec’s leadership in the battery sector, stating, “Candiac is positioned as a center of excellence for larger-scale production and a localized supply chain that reduces the environmental footprint of batteries.”

The $15 million loan covers approximately $63.4 million in eligible expenditures through 2026, with repayments beginning in 2028. The $3 million grant will offset costs associated with cleaner manufacturing practices.

The Candiac facility, North America’s only existing LFP production site, was acquired by Nano One in 2022. The plant’s 200-ton-per-annum pilot line was successfully commissioned in 2023, with further capacity expansions planned for 2025 and 2026. The Québec funding complements $12.9 million in U.S. Department of Defense support announced earlier this year.

Government officials, including Ministers Christine Fréchette and Benoit Charette, emphasized the initiative’s role in positioning Québec as a global leader in the battery sector, aligning with energy transition goals. The support solidifies Nano One’s position in the North American supply chain for electric vehicles, energy storage systems, and defense applications.

Canadians Demand Action on Electrified Transit to Combat Climate Change

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Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation, has released a new survey highlighting growing public concern over the environmental impact of traditional transit emissions. The findings reveal overwhelming support for electrified transit as a critical step toward sustainability.

The survey underscores the urgency of transitioning to greener transportation. An impressive 83% of Canadians agree that electrifying public transit is essential for creating sustainable cities and towns. The data also shows that nearly four in five Canadians are deeply concerned about climate change, with 82% acknowledging the harmful environmental effects of emissions from traditional transit systems. Additionally, three-quarters of respondents expressed a desire for more information about government incentive programs that support the adoption of environmentally friendly transit options.

Frederick Morency, Schneider Electric Canada’s Vice President of Sustainability, Strategic Initiatives & Innovation, emphasized the need for accelerated action. “Emissions are surging faster than at any other time in history, and Canadians are sounding the alarm,” he said. “Electrifying public transit is one of the most effective steps we can take to curb these emissions, but the pace must increase if we’re to make meaningful progress.”

The survey also revealed that 74% of Canadians feel society is not doing enough to address climate change, and more than half consider the environment when choosing transportation options. Furthermore, 78% of respondents believe that continued reliance on combustion-engine vehicles in public transit will negatively impact the environment.

Schneider Electric’s findings come at a pivotal moment as Canada works to meet its 2030 and 2050 climate commitments. “Governments, industry leaders, and communities must collaborate to prioritize this transition,” Morency added. “By developing innovative solutions, sharing best practices, and leveraging resources, we can create a sustainable and efficient public transit system for future generations.”

With Canadians voicing strong support for greener transit solutions, the message is clear: the nation’s transit future must be electrified to meet both environmental and societal goals.

AI’s Power Surge Challenges Canada’s Electricity Grid

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Artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping economies worldwide, but its rapid growth is presenting significant challenges to Canada’s electricity grid. In a recent report from RBC Thought Leadership, Shaz Merwat highlights the transformative impact of AI on energy demand, the grid’s reliability, and emissions.

The Energy-Intensive Reality of AI

AI operations, such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT, consume substantial energy. A single ChatGPT query uses ten times more energy than a standard Google search. With the proliferation of AI applications and data centers, Merwat predicts Canada’s energy demands could surge. If all proposed data center projects proceed, these facilities may account for 14% of Canada’s total power needs by 2030, echoing similar trends in the United States.

Economic Opportunities vs. Environmental Costs

The construction of 20 to 30 new data centers represents a $100 billion economic opportunity, covering both infrastructure development and accompanying IT systems. However, meeting these energy demands while balancing environmental responsibilities is a pressing concern. Although Canada’s clean energy resources offer a strategic advantage, natural gas remains essential for its reliability. Adding six gigawatts of natural gas-powered data centers could increase Canada’s annual emissions by 3%, Merwat warns. Investments in carbon capture and storage (CCS) technology could help mitigate these emissions.

Strategic Advantages in Data Sovereignty

Local data centers are not only crucial for AI growth but also enhance Canada’s data sovereignty and cybersecurity capabilities. These facilities provide a critical edge in managing sensitive information securely within the country’s borders.

Harmonizing Regulations and Supporting SMEs

Merwat emphasizes the importance of regulatory alignment with the United States to maintain North American leadership in AI. The 2026 review of the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement (CUSMA) is expected to refine digital trade policies, fostering cross-border collaboration in AI governance.

Additionally, encouraging AI adoption among Canada’s small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is essential. SMEs, which contribute to half of Canada’s GDP, could boost the country’s productivity, currently lagging behind global competitors, by leveraging AI technologies effectively.

Balancing Growth and Sustainability

The RBC report underscores the dual nature of AI’s rise in Canada. While it brings unprecedented economic opportunities, it also raises critical challenges for energy consumption, grid reliability, and emissions. Addressing these issues requires investments in clean energy and advanced technologies like CCS, alongside cohesive regulatory frameworks. By tackling these challenges head-on, Canada can maximize AI’s potential while maintaining its environmental and economic commitments.

$8M Investment Targets Clean Energy Projects in Remote B.C. Communities

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British Columbia is home to more than 40 remote communities, primarily governed by First Nations, which remain unconnected to the province’s electricity grid.

Currently, most of these communities depend on diesel generators for electricity. But as Canada reaches for lofty “Net Zero” goals, regional government is hoping to change that.

Seven remote First Nations in B.C. are getting support this month from the Province to launch local clean-energy projects focused on lowering emissions and cutting energy costs.

The support hails from B.C.’s Community Energy Diesel Reduction program, which has provided nearly $13 million to more than two dozen clean-energy projects since launching in 2022.

“We are committed to our goal of reducing diesel consumption in remote off-grid communities by supporting capacity building and forming strategic partnerships,” says Adrian Dix, who functions as Minister of Energy and Climate Solutions, with a goal to “work together to build cleaner and healthier communities for people living in BC’s most remote places.”

The Province’s CEDR program is providing almost $8M to these seven communities, who will each embark on a project toward reducing their reliance on diesel for energy. The funds will be administered by administered by the New Relationship Trust.

“This flexible-funding program continues to transform energy systems in remote and First Nation communities in BC,” said Walter Schneider, chief executive officer of New Relationship, adding that “We are proud to partner in the successful development of decarbonization projects that advance each community’s distinct needs and goals.”

The clean-energy projects vary in size and scope, and include hydro, solar, biomass, and hydrogen.

For example, the Gitga’at First Nation is receiving $2M to develop a run-of-lake 948-kilowatt hydroelectric generation facility that is expected to displace up to 95% of diesel usage, while the Ulkatcho First Nation will receive $1M to support the creation of a 3.8-megawatt solar farm that is expected to reduce its community’s diesel usage by up to 64%.

“Ulkatcho Energy Corporation’s solar farm project marks a new path for Ulkatcho, displacing a significant amount of diesel use in the community, while creating lasting economic and environmental benefits,” stated Stephen James, head of the Ulkatcho Group of Companies.

The Dease River First Nation will benefit $930,000 in support of a 550-kilowatt run-of-river hydro project in Good Hope Lake, while Heiltsuk First Nation is receiving $200,000 for a pre-feasibility study on the viability of producing hydrogen through electrolysis. Old Masset village council will receive $600,000 to install a biomass heating system for its local hospital and health centre.

The CEDR Program was developed in partnership with Coast Funds and the B.C. Ministry of Energy, Mines, and Low Carbon Innovation as part of the Ministry’s Remote Community Energy Strategy to achieve the CleanBC goal of reducing diesel electricity generation and heating in remote communities by 80% by 2030.

The next CEDR intake will be announced in 2025.

Midea Deepens Footprint in Canada Amid Push for Clean Energy Solutions

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The world’s largest producer of major appliances is intensifying its presence in Canada as the country pushes for an ambitious “Net Zero” economy.

China’s Midea, established in 1968, is a maker of smart home solutions and heat pump technologies, among other clean energy products. The manufacturing giant boasts 17 research and development centres in nearly as many countries.

Entering 2025, Midea has crosshairs on Canada. In response to the nation’s heat pump craze powered by various incentives, the Chinese company this week opened a 23,000-square-foot flagship showroom in Mississauga—Midea’s first such facility in the country.

The showroom is designed for exploration of Midea’s heat pump technologies, such as the EVOX G3 Heat Pump System and the Heat Pump Water Heater, all of which qualify for Canadian national, regional, and utility-based incentives, such as Canada’s Greener Homes Loan and the Oil to Heat Pump Affordability Program.

“Our new showroom in Mississauga marks an important step in Midea’s commitment to providing Canadians with the same industry leading heat pump technology that Americans have been upgrading to,” stated Phil Huang, Director of North America for Midea Residential Air Conditioning.

It is Midea’s first showroom in Canada, Huang says, but not the last.

“This showroom is just the beginning, with plans to bring more Midea showrooms to key markets across Canada,” he said.

Midea’s heat pumps are “tailored for Canada,” according to the company, because their technology is less impacted by the colder climates that often diminish performance. The EVOX G3, for example, achieves up to 100% heating output at -26°C and operates down to -30°C thanks to “Enhanced Vapour Injection” tech and a multi-layer heat exchange system.

“Our products, including EVOX G3 and the HPWH, are developed to meet the highest performance and efficiency standards, ensuring reliable heating and cost savings for homeowners in the most challenging conditions,” says David Rames, who serves as Senior Product Manager at the Midea America Research & Development Centre.

“The Mississauga showroom opening—and plans to open more in Canada—demonstrate Midea’s commitment to making our innovative and sustainable heat pump solutions accessible to Canadian homeowners,” he said.

Innovate BC Highlights Ideon and Rockburst in Latest Ignite Awards

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Innovate BC has awarded $1.5 million to five research and development projects through its Ignite program, accelerating innovation across British Columbia. The funded initiatives address critical challenges in healthcare, mining emissions reduction, and more, fostering industry competitiveness and job creation province-wide.

“We are proud to deliver the Ignite program, which provides critical funding to drive the commercial success of cutting-edge solutions coming out of industry and academic partnerships in British Columbia,” said Peter Cowan, President and CEO of Innovate BC.

“These innovations not only address some of the province’s most pressing challenges, but also help promote productivity and growth in key industries, ultimately contributing to a prosperous economy that benefits all British Columbians.”

The Ignite program supports the commercialization of innovative projects in clean technology, engineering, and life sciences. Each project receives up to $300,000, enabling solutions that address pressing industry problems and show strong potential for market readiness within three years. Funded projects must demonstrate technical and commercial feasibility and involve collaboration between academic and industry partners.

Two cleantech projects were among the recipients, highlighting their potential to revolutionize the mining sector:

Ideon Technologies and Dr. Shaun Barker (University of British Columbia): This project focuses on utilizing cosmic-ray muon tomography to map and model block-cave mines. The approach aims to enhance the safety, efficiency, and accuracy of critical mineral extraction while reducing environmental impact compared to traditional mining methods.

Rockburst Technologies and Dr. Bern Klein (University of British Columbia): This collaboration seeks to develop a CO2-based method to pulverize ore, significantly reducing the energy and heavy machinery required in conventional crushing processes. This innovation could make mining operations more environmentally sustainable and cost-effective.

Since its launch in 2016, the Ignite program has provided $13.5 million in funding to 53 projects.

CICE Invests $7.7M in Climate and Wildfire Tech to Accelerate Decarbonization

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The B.C. Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) has announced the recipients of its latest funding opportunities, investing a total of $7.7 million in 13 innovative climate tech companies.  

These non-dilutive investments, made through CICE’s Call for Wildfire Tech and the July 2024 Open Call for Innovation, align with CICE’s mission to accelerate transformative decarbonization solutions and B.C.’s transition to a clean economy. This investment supports early-stage companies developing innovative clean energy and climate solutions, with a focus on technologies that drive significant reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. 

This spring, CICE launched Canada’s first-ever funding opportunity for wildfire technologies, committing up to $3 million to support companies developing groundbreaking solutions to better manage and mitigate the growing threat of wildfires. 74 companies applied for the 2024 Wildfire Tech Call for Innovation.

“Wildfires are becoming more frequent and destructive, threatening communities, ecosystems,  and the economy,” said Sarah Goodman, President and CEO of CICE. “The companies we selected  are developing cutting-edge solutions to reduce fire risk, improve response times, and protect vulnerable regions. This funding is a significant investment in B.C. and Canada’s ability to respond to one of the most urgent climate-related challenges we face, while also paving the way to reduce  carbon emissions from these devastating events.” 

CICE is investing a total of $3.5 million in the following six companies:

  • CRWN.ai: Predicting wildfire risk with frequency and AI on the most remote transmission lines. 
  • FireSwarm: Wildfire suppression through autonomous drone swarms to detect, map, and battle fires with precision and speed. 
  • Nova from Hummingbird Drones: Delivering real-time mapping with infrared scanning and machine learning, enabling fire teams to make swift, data-driven decisions.
  • Skyward: Groundbreaking lightning suppression technology to prevent wildfires and protect communities, industries, and forests. 
  • Voxelis: Supercharging firefighting helicopters with advanced AI and sensor technology to combat wildfires.
  • Wildfire Robotics: Advancing robotic systems that transform perimeter control and risk-reduction burning.  

In addition, CICE is investing $4.2 million in seven B.C. climate tech companies, selected from 79 applicants to its July 2024 Call for Innovation.

These companies are advancing breakthrough technologies in low carbon hydrogen, battery technology, energy storage, and low-carbon fuels, and align with CICE’s  mission to accelerate the transition to a low-carbon economy. 

These projects—from EV-enabled snowplows to high-efficiency hydrogen fuel cells, to biofuels derived from wastewater—are pushing the boundaries of innovation to tackle emissions and  transform industries. The projects include:  

Battery and Energy Storage  

  • Edison Motors: Transforming winter road maintenance with the world’s first EV tri blade snowplow.  
  • NESI: Enabling sustainability in lithium battery manufacturing through circular processing.  

Low Carbon Fuels  

  • AlgaFilm: Revolutionizing wastewater treatment with algae to create clean water and sustainable biofuels. 
  • NanosTech: Validating a novel catalyst to convert agriculture and forestry-based oils into low carbon fuels. 

Low Carbon Hydrogen  

  • Ekona: Disrupting clean hydrogen production with cost-effective solutions that convert carbon waste into catalysts for economic growth and GHG reduction.
  • Quantum Technology: Eliminating hydrogen loss during storage and transfers, enabling efficient refuelling for heavy transportation and remote applications.
  • Unilia: Boosting hydrogen fuel cell efficiency, durability, and  performance for zero-emission heavy-duty fuel cell electric vehicles to compete with diesel trucks. 

“We’re on a mission to fast-track the commercialization of B.C.’s most promising climate  solutions. A critical part of that is supporting innovators when they need it the most, so they  ultimately deliver those impactful solutions to the world while creating economic benefits for B.C.  and Canada,” adds Goodman. 

To date, CICE has invested $39 million in 59 clean energy and climate technology projects valued at over $196 million through its open and directed calls for innovation. 

Earlier this week, CICE launched a Call for Energy Storage Innovation in collaboration with BC Hydro, a $3 million funding opportunity to scale energy storage solutions and grid technologies to propel decarbonization and electrification in B.C., that can be replicated across jurisdictions to drive global climate impact.

CICE’s Call for Women in Climate Tech is now open, inviting women-led climate tech ventures to apply by December 3rd, with the goal of driving innovation, strengthening economic growth, and creating a more inclusive energy transition.

Bridging Innovation and Investment: Jonah Goldman’s Insights at CONVERGE

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The B.C. Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) hosted their annual CONVERGE conference today in Vancouver and it opened with a thought-provoking discussion on the future of climate technology and the financial and structural challenges that come with scaling solutions for a net-zero world.

Sarah Goodman, President and CEO of CICE, sat down with Jonah Goldman of Generate Capital for a wide-ranging conversation that included the inadequacy of traditional financing models, the critical importance of commercialization, and the need for robust collaboration between public and private sectors.

Jonah Goldman is the Head of External Affairs and Impact at Generate Capital, where he oversees communications, government engagement, and impact assessment and strategy.

Prior to joining Generate Capital, Goldman led Breakthrough Energy, a network founded by Bill Gates that includes investment funds, nonprofit and philanthropic programs, and policy efforts aimed at scaling technologies needed to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

“Green Premiums” and the Financing Gap

One of Goldman’s central points was the concept of the “green premium”—the additional cost often associated with adopting sustainable technologies over traditional ones. Goldman argued that these premiums are an unavoidable reality for many climate solutions, particularly in asset-heavy sectors such as steel, concrete, and hydrogen.

“Some of these technologies will never eliminate that premium,” he noted. “Most often, that premium will have to be absorbed by public payers or innovative market mechanisms. The question is: how do we create financing models that reflect this reality and still allow these technologies to scale?”

He emphasized that while philanthropic and impact capital can help address early-stage funding gaps, achieving global scalability requires mechanisms that integrate public subsidies, private investment, and consumer engagement.

The Importance of Commercialization and “Steel in the Ground”

Goldman stressed that many startups in the climate space overlook the importance of early commercialization strategies. He repeatedly referred to the necessity of getting “steel in the ground,” a term he used to signify tangible progress in building projects and infrastructure.

“Climate tech is not like software or biotech. It’s an asset-heavy, project-intensive business,” he said. “From day one, entrepreneurs need to think about project finance, customer relationships, and how their solutions will scale in the real world.”

For Goldman, the ability to demonstrate commercial viability early in a company’s lifecycle is critical to attracting both public and private investment. “Every company will face the moment when they realize they need to commercialize sooner than expected,” he warned. “Planning for that moment from the beginning is essential.”

A Call for Collaboration

Goldman also called for deeper collaboration between governments, investors, and entrepreneurs to address the unprecedented scale of the climate challenge. He pointed to the historical reliance of industries like fossil fuels on public capital and policy incentives as a model for how clean technologies can grow.

“The fossil fuel industry didn’t succeed in isolation,” Goldman said. “It’s absurd to think we can decarbonize the global economy without a similar alignment of public and private interests.”

He praised regions like British Columbia and the U.S. West Coast for their leadership in creating policy and funding environments conducive to innovation. However, he cautioned that more must be done to align capital with climate goals, particularly for technologies with long timelines and high upfront costs.

Optimism for the Future

Despite the challenges, Goldman expressed cautious optimism about the trajectory of climate technology. Reflecting on the progress since the Paris Agreement, he highlighted the increasing number of startups and established players bringing viable solutions to market.

“We’ve solved every problem as a species that has ever presented itself to us,” he said. “Maybe we can’t solve this one, but I think we should still bet on us.”

As the world grapples with the urgency of climate change, Goldman’s insights underscore the critical importance of integrating innovation, financing, and collaboration. For attendees at CICE’s Converge conference, his message was clear: tackling the climate crisis will require both bold thinking and a grounded, practical approach to building the future.

Swap Robotics Secures $3 Million Investment from ARRAY Technologies

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Kitchener-based Swap Robotics has received a significant boost in its mission to revolutionize solar power deployment, securing a $3 million investment from ARRAY Technologies, a global leader in solar tracker technology.

The investment, part of Swap Robotics’ pre–Series A funding round, highlights ARRAY’s commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in the utility-scale solar sector. ARRAY also pledged an additional $2 million contingent on Swap Robotics achieving specific milestones, emphasizing its confidence in the company’s groundbreaking technology.

“Swap Robotics is developing a disruptive technology that perfectly fits with our mission to innovate and lead in the solar industry,” said Kevin G. Hostetler, CEO of ARRAY. “As the utility-scale PV installation market stands at a crossroads, ripe for automation, we see an exciting opportunity to set new standards that drive project efficiency and customer value.”

Swap Robotics, known for its utility-scale robotic solutions for solar operations and maintenance, is poised to redefine solar panel installation. The company’s 100% electric, heavy-duty robots have already logged over 8,000 miles of autonomous navigation in harsh conditions, managing vegetation and addressing labor-intensive tasks on solar sites.

The partnership aims to integrate Swap Robotics’ advanced automation technology with ARRAY’s solar tracking systems, enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and optimizing installation processes. “ARRAY is the perfect strategic partner as we continue to revolutionize solar construction with our automated solutions,” said Tim Lichti, CEO of Swap Robotics.

ARRAY’s investment positions it at the forefront of automation in the solar industry. By embracing robotics, the company aims to streamline solar project execution while reinforcing its leadership in sustainability and global decarbonization efforts.

This collaboration marks a pivotal moment for Swap Robotics, solidifying its role as a key player in utility-scale solar automation. As both companies innovate to meet the growing demand for clean energy, this partnership underscores the transformative potential of automation in accelerating the clean energy transition.

CICE Launches Call for Energy Storage Innovation with BC Hydro  

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The B.C. Centre for Innovation and Clean Energy (CICE) has launched the Call for Energy Storage Innovation, a strategic partnership with BC Hydro aimed at advancing scalable energy storage solutions and grid innovations across the province.

The initiative, announced today, offers up to $3 million in non-dilutive funding for projects that accelerate the commercialization of clean energy technologies.

“We have partnered with BC Hydro to identify the areas of innovation needed to support and diversify an abundant, reliable, and affordable clean energy future,” said Sarah Goodman, President and CEO of CICE.

“Now, we’re calling on innovators to deliver the energy storage and grid solutions that BC Hydro and other utilities worldwide need most. Together, we can fast-track market readiness, attract investment, and strengthen B.C.’s leadership in clean energy innovation.”

The program underscores a shared commitment by CICE and BC Hydro to decarbonization and electrification, with a focus on diversifying British Columbia’s clean and renewable energy sources.

“BC Hydro’s collaboration with CICE presents a unique opportunity for British Columbia to lead in developing and implementing innovative grid solutions,” said Chris O’Riley, President and CEO of BC Hydro.

“Together, we are committed to identifying projects that will enable clean and renewable electricity, like wind and solar, and enhance reliability by providing more flexibility in how we manage our customers’ needs and our grid as demand for clean power grows.”

A Call to Innovators

The initiative invites proposals from Canadian companies with projects based in British Columbia. Applicants must demonstrate strong operational capabilities, effective management, and financial stability.

Eligible projects span a range of innovative clean energy solutions, including:

  • Energy Storage (Stationary or Mobile)
  • Microgrids, Distributed Energy Resources, and Hybrid Systems
  • Flexible Generation, Load, and Grid Management
  • Power Electronics, Integrated Energy Systems, and Sensing Technologies

CICE is prioritizing projects that align with BC Hydro’s battery and energy storage incentive programs, emphasizing affordability, reliability, and community resilience. Eligible activities include pilot projects, demonstrations, new implementation strategies, and innovative business model development.

Applications will be accepted between November 26, 2024, and February 28, 2025.