Bruce County poised to be a hydrogen industry leader

Bruce County has the economy, location, natural resources, readiness to build, and project partners required to become a leader in clean hydrogen technology, research, and innovation. The region is positioned to be a catalyst for the developing hydrogen industry in Ontario, to significantly contribute to and benefit from the transition to a low-carbon economy.

On April 15, Bruce County Planning and Development Committee received the Bruce Innovates: Foundational Hydrogen Infrastructure Feasibility Report completed by Hatch, a consulting engineering firm, and supporting staff report. In doing so, Committee supported promoting Bruce County as a prime region to advance a hydrogen economy, and for the County to facilitate and support partnerships for growth in the future hydrogen industry.

“By positioning ourselves in this emerging market, Bruce County could promote growth in the local energy sector, stimulate innovation, and create next generation jobs and training opportunities,” says Bruce County Warden Janice Jackson. “The County will start to facilitate efforts to advance a foundational hydrogen economy.”

Highlights of Hydrogen Infrastructure Feasibility Report:

• The hydrogen sector has grown since 1975 and is projected to continue growing over the next 30 years to meet Ontario and Canada’s climate goals.

• Hydrogen will play an important role to decarbonize various sectors and to help reach emission reduction targets in Ontario, Canada and abroad.

• A hydrogen production and storage facility is seen as a way of catalysing the industry, encouraging growth in the energy sector and supplying a wide range of markets with low-carbon hydrogen to meet needs and reduce environmental impact. A facility of this nature is an opportunity for a potential private developer, investor, or a consortium of partners.

• Advancing a hydrogen sector has the potential to advance investment in skills training and education, retain and attract professional talent and further position the county as a vital player in Ontario’s green hydrogen industry.