Hydrogen derived from renewables to power the Canadian mining sector

The purpose of this research is to determine the techno-economic feasibility of utilizing renewable energy to produce hydrogen for use in mine sites in Ontario to reduce their carbon intensity. As wind and solar electricity generation is intermittent, hydrogen has the flexibility as an on-demand fuel source, as well as an option for long-term storage. PNE Canada is a renewable energy generation company, the next step for their business would be to find energy storage options to maximize the energy generated from renewables. This research in utilizing hydrogen as energy storage and energy production vectors, will open more market segments for the company and further integrate their business model in providing reliable clean energy to Canada.
While this research focus is on industrial mine sites, this study has potential to be a blueprint for remote communities in Canada, or any location that is looking to become energy independent. For Northern Canada, communities that rely on diesel for heat and power generation, the cost of transporting the diesel has economic, environmental and social implications. These costs and problems will increase as world oil prices rise, carbon taxes increase, and the winter fuel shipping season decreases due to warming in Northern climates.

Faculty Supervisor:

Ganesh Doluweera

Student:

Partner:

PNE Canada Inc

Discipline:

Business

Sector:

Utilities

University:

University of Calgary

Program: