The Canadian federal government has announced $13.4 million in funding for made-in-Alberta energy technologies, with $4.3 million allocated to three University of Calgary (UCalgary) research projects focused on carbon capture, utilization, and storage and carbon dioxide removal. The funding, announced by Minister of Energy and Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson at UCalgary’s Schulich School of Engineering, aims to advance research that enhances the efficiency, affordability, and scalability of carbon capture technologies.
“These projects will support job growth and economic prosperity in Alberta, and will help ensure that the province remains an energy superpower on the international scene,” said Wilkinson.
The first funded project, led by George Shimizu, received $2.5 million to develop a carbon capture system suited for electric arc furnaces used in the steel industry. As the industry shifts to recycled steel, these furnaces intermittently emit carbon dioxide, requiring flexible and energy-efficient capture technologies. Shimizu’s research focuses on overcoming the risks of scaling up new technology and ensuring its practical application in industrial settings.
Sean McCoy’s project, awarded $1.35 million, aims to enhance data quality, accessibility, and accuracy for life-cycle assessments and techno-economic analyses of carbon dioxide removal technologies. By providing a comprehensive understanding of these technologies’ feasibility, efficiency, and long-term impacts in the Canadian climate, the project will help policymakers and industry leaders make informed decisions to support net-zero goals.
The third project, led by Joule Bergerson and supported with $460,000, focuses on developing tools for analyzing carbon conversion technologies. Her research examines fuel pathways, tradeoffs between electrification and chemical fuels, and economic factors influencing the adoption of carbon capture solutions. By offering a clearer view of potential risks and opportunities, the project will help guide strategic decision-making and innovation while minimizing unintended consequences.
"This investment highlights the critical role of academic research in addressing our most-pressing energy challenges,” said William Ghali, vice president (research).
“UCalgary is a leader in energy research and technology development, and the funded projects showcase the innovative solutions being explored by our scholars.”