Canadian Innovation Fund Launches Gas Challenge

Canada’s Natural Gas Innovation Fund (NGIF) said December 9 it – along with seven leading producer partners – would conduct a C$3mn (US$2.3mn) funding call for clean technology solutions to support natural gas production.

The funding competition is aimed at advancing cleantech solutions in methane emissions reduction, carbon capture storage and utilisation, fuel switching, low-grade heat utilisation and energy efficiency.

“NGIF’s trusted investment model and strategic partnerships have resulted in a strong portfolio of investments to date,” NGIF managing director John Adams said. “We are excited to receive applications involving a range of innovative projects for Canada’s natural gas producers.”

The NGIF, which was launched in 2016 by the Canadian Gas Association, will work with its producer partners – Birchcliff Energy, Canadian Natural Resources Limited, Chevron Canada, Perpetual Energy, Petronas Canada, Shell Canada, and Tourmaline Oil – to assess proposals under the challenge. Deadline for submissions is February 2, 2021.

Selected proposals may receive reimbursable grants up to C$1mn per project, covering up to 25% of eligible expenses. The call is directed to small and medium enterprises and technology development start-ups anywhere in the world, but the projects must advance cleantech innovation and greenhouse gas emissions here in Canada.

The NGIF will also work with other stakeholders at the federal and provincial level to explore co-funding opportunities with selected projects.

“We believe the opportunity for Canada’s natural gas sector is real,” said Seamus O’Regan, Canada’s minister of natural resources. “This is how we reduce emissions, improve energy efficiency and keep our companies globally competitive.”