The project converts these materials into hydrogen while capturing and storing the carbon underground in saline aquifers or depleted gas reservoirs. The resulting hydrogen will be blended with natural gas to create carbon-neutral energy. Hydrogen Naturally aims to co-locate with existing industrial facilities in Alberta’s Industrial Heartland to reduce emissions directly, eliminating the need for hydrogen transport or carbon offsets.
Rebecca Schulz, Minister of Environment and Protected Areas, stated: “We have the energy and the innovation to help power the world in the most environmentally responsible way. That’s why we are investing in technology and innovation to help create jobs, fuel our economy and keep attracting investments into our province.” Dale Nally added: “Hydrogen offers major potential for Alberta to leverage our vast natural resources, skilled workforce and existing energy infrastructure. Alberta is the largest hydrogen producer in Canada, and we’re just getting started.”
The funding, sourced from Alberta’s Technology Innovation and Emissions Reduction (TIER) Regulation, will support a Front-End Engineering and Design study. This study will provide critical regulatory, engineering, and environmental data to develop Hydrogen Naturally’s first hydrogen production unit. Justin Riemer, CEO of ERA, noted: “The Government of Alberta’s ongoing investment in hydrogen is essential for our province to become a major player in the global hydrogen economy. Companies like Hydrogen Naturally are showcasing how innovation and strategic investment can deliver tangible emissions reductions while fueling economic growth.”
Brett Jackson, President of Hydrogen Naturally, emphasized: “The Government of Alberta, through Emissions Reduction Alberta, will play a pivotal role in advancing our negative-emission hydrogen facility, which uses innovative gasification technology to utilize forest harvest residuals. Together, H2N and Alberta can leverage our extensive carbon capture and sequestration capabilities to become global leaders in low emission energy and sustainable forest management.”
Supported by ERA’s Continuous Intake Program, the project aligns with Alberta’s commitment to sustainable energy innovation. ERA has invested over $83 million in 16 hydrogen initiatives, contributing to emissions reductions, job creation, and economic growth across the province.
