The B.C. government has allotted over $1.4 million toward Victoria-based companies in order to develop clean tech and energy projects through the Innovative Clean Energy (ICE) Fund.
The money will be invested into two separate projects, which NDP MLA Rob Fleming says will focus on a healthier environment and green jobs.
“Through our CleanBC Plan, we are building a stronger, more sustainable economy that works for everyone,” said Fleming, MLA for Victoria-Swan Lake. “These projects will reduce carbon levels, create a cleaner environment and contribute to regional food security and food storage innovation.”
Cryologisitics is receiving $1,439,000 from the B.C. government – the bulk of spending being invested in Victoria-based projects.
According to the government, Cryologistics will be putting the funds towards developing a carbon dioxide refrigeration technology aimed at reducing emissions in the high-value cold freight transportation sector.
The technology will use liquid carbon dioxide to provide controlled cooling power within an insulated pallet container. It will also aim to replace diesel refrigeration units to help reduce waste, emissions and cut costs for high-value products like pharmaceuticals and seafood.
Global Energy Horizons, also based in Victoria and operating as CleanBerry for this project, will be receiving $40,000 to help with a clean energy project.
CleanBerry will work on a carbon sequestration and hydrogen production pilot plant in Pemberton.
“Through CleanBC, we are supporting made-in-B.C. innovations that will help grow our world-leading clean tech sector and create good jobs,” said Bruce Ralston, Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources. “The same technology and ideas needed to reduce climate pollution will drive economic growth and help B.C. businesses succeed in the global market for clean energy, products and expertise.”
The province is providing $8.5 million over nine projects throughout B.C. as part of the ICE fund this year – a fund which has committed approximately $104 million since to support clean energy tech projects since 2008.
“Expanding innovation creates jobs, strengthens communities and better positions B.C. companies at the forefront of a growing global market in clean technology solutions,” said George Heyman, Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy. “Our CleanBC climate and economic plan will continue to expand opportunities for clean energy production, transportation, natural resource extraction and other sectors.”
ICE Fund partnerships have included First Nations, universities, municipalities and many emerging clean tech companies throughout British Columbia.
READ MORE: B.C. announces funding for mental health support at schools
Graham Cox
