Government of Canada Invests $30 M in Fuel Cell Research and Innovation

Vancouver, British Columbia, August 10, 1999 - John Manley, Minister of Industry; Ralph Goodale, Minister of Natural Resources; and Secretary of State (Asia-Pacific) Raymond Chan, today launched the National Fuel Cell Research and Innovation Initiative, announcing a $30 million investment to further strengthen the industry's research and development.

As part of the Initiative, the Ministers inaugurated a new National Fuel Cell Research Facility at the National Research Council's (NRC) Innovation Centre on the University of British Columbia campus.

Fuel cells are energy-efficient, low polluting electrochemical systems that can provide power to both industry and transport while meeting the need to ensure vehicles and industry become cleaner in the future. The entire field of fuel cell research has entered a phase of rapid development, with new discoveries and opportunities occurring almost daily.

"This investment in knowledge and innovation will strengthen our leading-edge fuel cell industry," said Minister Manley. "Fuel cell technology is a shining example of innovation as it lights a path toward a future where we can improve our environment without sacrificing economic efficiency."

"Today's announcement illustrates my belief that our desire for a healthy environment and a vibrant economy can, and must, go hand-in-hand," said Minister Goodale. "Fuel cell research means cleaner air, more high skilled, high paying jobs and improved trade opportunities."

"This initiative is another positive partnership between Government and business providing Canadians and the world with creative and timely solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve our environment," said Secretary of State Chan on behalf of Environment Minister David Anderson. "Today, B.C. is further bolstered to boost Canada's fuel cell industry, and on a long-term basis, the quality of Canadians' air and health."

The National Fuel Cell Research and Innovation Initiative is spearheaded by the Government of Canada in consultation with provincial governments and the private sector to support Canada's fuel cell industry.

The Initiative includes: the establishment of the National Fuel Cell Research Facility; a research and technology demonstration and deployment program supported by the NRC and the Climate Change Action Fund; and a $14 million fund, managed by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) and NRC, designed to lever private sector support for new industry collaborations with researchers in NRC institutes and Canadian universities.

Today's initiative builds on over 20 years of fuel cell technology research carried out by university and government researchers. By marshalling the excellent resources in these labs, Canada can take a major lead in this 21st century technology.

While the National Fuel Cell Research Facility is located in British Columbia, it will serve as an important link to research centres across Canada. Its work will help strengthen this key high-tech industry which in turn will lead to economic and environmental benefits. The Facility will also attract and develop a cluster of companies that will help support and expand Canada's fuel cell industry.

Funding for this project is provided from existing programs and is therefore built into the existing fiscal framework. This initiative is an example of how the Government of Canada is prioritizing its spending so that it can better serve Canadians by making efficient use of their tax dollars.

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