Federal grant fuels UVic alternative energy research

by Maria Lironi

UVic's institute for integrated energy systems (IESVic) - one of Canada's leading fuel cell research institutions - is enhancing its hydrogen and fuel cell R&D with a $522,000 grant from the federal government.

Environment Minister David Anderson announced the funding at a UVic news conference May 19 on behalf of Dr. Rey Pagtakhan, Minister of Western Economic Diversification Canada.

"The fuel cells sector has the potential to make a significant contribution to reaching our climate change and clean air objectives," said Anderson. "The government of Canada is committed to sustainable development through alternative energy, such as fuel cells, to ensure a safe and clean environment for future generations."

The funds will allow IESVic to purchase equipment - including advanced instrumentation for testing and measurements in fuel cells, state-of-the-art high-pressure composite cylinders to store hydrogen, and a hydrogen compressor - that will advance its study in the fuel cells and hydrogen sector.

"The storage tank and compressor will be part of our integrated renewable energy experiment and will allow us to store solar or wind energy in the form of hydrogen," explains Dr. Ned Djilali, IESVic's director. "Then we can draw on this stored energy by feeding it back into a fuel cell to produce power when needed.

"This investment from Western Economic Diversification Canada will allow us to pursue innovative research in fuel cells and sustainable energy systems integration. It will also enhance our capacity to assist industrial partners in developing this exciting new technology."

Most of today's energy systems require technological pathways based on non-renewable or greenhouse gas-emitting energy sources, such as hydrocarbons. Because these common energy resources are unsustainable and harmful, IESVic is committed to promoting and developing creative alternatives through original research. Founded in 1989, IESVic's areas of expertise are fuel cells, cryofuels, energy systems analysis and energy policy development.