Representatives of 22 Japanese companies, totaling 32 people, visited Vancouver, British Columbia, to tour hydrogen- and CCS-related technologies and network with local stakeholders. The study tour took place from 14 to 15 September.
The Japan External Trade Organization’s Western Canada Hydrogen and CCS Mission brought together 22 Japanese companies and public-sector organizations involved in hydrogen- and CCS-related businesses, with 32 participants visiting Vancouver, British Columbia. In the region, participants received briefings from the provincial government and related organizations on hydrogen and CCS policy, toured related companies and facilities, and networked with local stakeholders.
British Columbia is attracting attention as a hub for hydrogen production and exports, taking advantage of its abundant renewable electricity and location on the Pacific coast. At the networking event on 14 September, Parliamentary Secretary George Anderson expressed the province’s desire to deepen cooperation with Japan, emphasizing its economic and trade relationship with the country.
The mission visited Ekona Power and toured equipment that produces hydrogen and solid carbon by pyrolyzing methane derived from natural gas. Ekona Power generates revenue from carbon black sales and is reportedly scheduled to begin operating a new demonstration unit in 2027. The viability of its business model in Japan and Europe was also discussed.
On the 15th, the mission visited Simon Fraser University’s Venture Lab and received a briefing on the Hydrogen Hub’s activities. The briefing explained that HH supports commercialization not only through technology transfer and licensing but also through joint research and partnership development. Participants also expressed interest in exploring opportunities for collaboration with local companies.