A third innovation zone takes shape in Quebec to support energy transition

The Quebec government is investing more than $8 million in the creation of the third innovation zone to support energy transition. Called la Vallée de la transition énergétique, it will be deployed in the Mauricie region, more specifically between Bécancour, Trois-Rivières and Shawinigan.

It will facilitate the implementation of seven infrastructure and research projects to accelerate the decarbonization of the industrial-port sector, the battery industry’s further development, along with transportation’s electrification. It will also focus on optimizing green hydrogen’s production and use in the industrial chain.

"This new innovation zone will enable Quebec to distinguish itself worldwide as a leader in decarbonation technologies,” says Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of the Economy, Innovation and Energy, as well as for Regional Economic Development. “The synergy we've succeeded in creating between industry and the knowledge community will transform not only the region, but the whole province, and lead to major investments."

Four preliminary studies will initially be funded to evaluate projects involving the implementation of infrastructures designed to support the intended research and development. These include:

• An innovation centre in Shawinigan focused on advancing battery technologies and the electrification of transportation.
• A research enhancement centre for industrial and port decarbonization in Trois-Rivières.
• An innovation centre for the industrialization of critical and strategic minerals as well as hydrogen in Bécancour (including a training centre and process optimization facilities).

Industrial partners are also in discussions with the government to set up in the Bécancour industrial and port park, or to develop new projects there.