Kamloops Pulp Mill Launches $21M Green Hydrogen Project NOW

URGENT UPDATE: A groundbreaking $21 million green hydrogen production facility is set to transform the Kruger Pulp Mill in Kamloops, B.C. The innovative project, designed to significantly reduce carbon emissions, was just announced by the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Nation and Elemental Clean Fuels. The Kamloops Clean Energy Centre aims to decarbonize the mill’s operations and diminish its reliance on natural gas.

This ambitious project will construct a 10-megawatt facility that plans to replace 16 percent of the natural gas used in the mill’s energy-intensive lime kiln with green hydrogen. According to Irene Preto, general manager of Kruger Kamloops Pulp, this step marks a major advancement toward renewable energy use.

The announcement comes as authorities emphasize the importance of transitioning to clean energy solutions. In a statement, Kúkwpi7 (Chief) Rosanne Casimir highlighted the project’s significance for sustainability and economic self-determination for the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc Nation.

This facility will utilize electrolysis, a process that splits water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen, powered by electricity generated from the mill’s own biomass cogeneration. This method ensures that the hydrogen produced is classified as “green,” minimizing greenhouse gas emissions.

The anticipated reduction in emissions is substantial, with estimates suggesting a decrease of 7,000 tonnes of CO2 per year. To put this into perspective, this is equivalent to removing between 1,200 to 1,500 vehicles from the road annually, according to Zachary Steele, CEO of Elemental Clean Fuels.

While the project is still in the design phase, the final investment decision is expected by 2026, with construction commencing shortly thereafter. This timeline underscores the urgency of transitioning to sustainable practices within the pulp and paper industry.

As British Columbia strives to become a leader in hydrogen technology, the Kruger Pulp Mill’s initiative represents a critical step forward amid ongoing challenges facing the region’s hydrogen economy. Recent reports indicate that several planned hydrogen projects have been stalled, making this announcement even more significant.

With an increasing focus on achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, the Kamloops Clean Energy Centre stands as a beacon of hope for innovative clean energy solutions. This project is not just an advancement for Kruger Pulp, but a vital contribution to the broader efforts of governments and organizations to combat climate change.

Stay tuned for further updates as this project progresses and as authorities continue to pave the way for a more sustainable future in British Columbia.