The Canadian government plans to invest nearly half a million dollars in the Canadian Hydrogen Association to help expand British Columbia’s hydrogen and fuel cell companies into markets around the world.
With more than half of all the hydrogen companies in Canada and 1,350 full-time workers, B.C. is home to the country’s largest hydrogen and fuel cell cluster, according to a report from Pacific Economic Development Canada (PacifiCan). The investment of $466,956, announced by Gregor Robertson, PacifiCan minister, is expected to help B.C. companies attract investment, seize export opportunities, and grow at home.
“With clean energy innovation, British Columbians are leading Canada into the hydrogen economy,” Robertson said in a news release. “This investment supports good jobs, lower emissions, and a stronger Canadian economy—built for today and the future.”
The funding was provided through PacifiCan’s Regional Innovation Ecosystem program. It will support 40 small- and medium-sized businesses, contributing to jobs and growth in B.C. and the larger Canadian economy.
In May 2024, PacifiCan also announced an investment of more than $9.4 million to launch the Clean Hydrogen Hub at Simon Fraser University. The Hub works with partners, including the Canadian Hydrogen Association, to advance hydrogen production and technologies at home and abroad.
“British Columbia is well-positioned to become a leading exporter of hydrogen, hydrogen technologies, and related services by capitalizing on its world-leading industry and research expertise, proximity to key markets, and abundant natural resources,” said Nicolas Hilario, Canadian Hydrogen Association interim president and CEO. “Our sector is grateful to PacifiCan for its support as we accelerate our efforts to expand export of, and investment interest in, BC hydrogen capabilities and products.”