Comprising roughly three-quarters of the universe’s baryonic mass, the most abundant element in the universe can provide energy without releasing carbon dioxide—granting hydrogen the potential to be a potent source of clean fuel.
For this reason, companies across Canada are working on solutions in the hydrogen space—especially in Alberta.
In spite of Premier Danielle Smith’s doubts about a near-term Net Zero economy, the province of Alberta has emerged as a hydrogen innovation hotspot; indeed, it is already the largest hydrogen producer in Canada.
One thing Smith appears certain about is that reducing her province’s carbon emissions will involve the region’s hydrogen sector.
That is why the Province announced last year $50 million through Emissions Reduction Alberta to support researchers and innovators developing technologies that are critical to advancing the region’s Hydrogen Roadmap and Natural Gas Strategy.
In addition, 2024 saw The Hydrogen Centre of Excellence launched by Alberta Innovates in order to accelerate technology and innovation across the hydrogen value chain, from production to end use.
Post-secondary institutions have also committed to the cause.
Local companies in the space include Gradient Thermal. The Calgary-based firm has developed syncFURNACE, a technology that combines space and water heating into a single efficient dual-furnace for residential and small commercial applications.
Gradient has been advancing researching and developing hydrogen innovation since 2021, according to Jennifer Doepker, the company’s Vice President.
“Gradient creates the most effective heating systems for better homes, combining space furnace heating and hot water in a single appliance,” Doepker recently informed Alberta Innovates. “Continuing that innovation for zero-emission home heating just makes sense.”
Originally fuelled by natural gas, Gradient’s syncFURNACE—which is manufactured locally in Alberta—has been converted to be fuelled by 100% H2.
“We’re very proud to have developed North America’s first hydrogen-fuelled combined heating appliance in Alberta, showcasing a viable hydrogen value-chain,” Doepker said.
In addition to environmental advantages (the company promises energy savings up to 30%), one benefit of this new system is “endless hot water.” Unlike traditional water heaters that store and heat a limited amount of hot water, a syncFURNACE heats water as it’s needed, which means you’ll never run out of flowing hot water. The units also take up much less space than having both an air furnace and separate hot water tank.
Gradient has five proof-of-concept units currently installed. These pilot units will inform the performance requirements of future prototype designs, according to Doepker.
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