Projets de recherche en hydrogène
– CCTT involved: CNETE
– University involved: U.Laval
– Summary: This project aims to assess the feasibility and increase the technological maturity of new emerging processes that consume less energy than the Haber-Bosch process. More specifically, the lithium-mediated process (Li0 to Li3N to Li+ + NH3) in a non-aqueous environment and the process using a specific enzymatic catalyst (nitrogenase reductase) will be investigated for feasibility, technological maturity and techno-economic analysis in order to develop competitive technologies that can be deployed locally.
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– CCTT involved: ITMI
– University involved: ÉTS – Polytechnique
– Abstract: The project proposed by CR2ie concerns the study and design of a hybrid microbial/hydrogen/solar energy system for an isolated wastewater treatment plant. The microbial fuel cell (MFC) uses the micro-organisms present in wastewater to transfer, via a direct-contact biofilm, the electrons produced by the oxidation of organic compounds to the cell’s anode. This anode oxidation also generates protons. The electrons are then transported to the cathode through the external circuit, while the protons pass through the electrolyte to reach the cathode. In the absence of oxygen at the cathode, the electrons reduce the protons to produce hydrogen. Spontaneous operation of an MFC therefore produces both electricity and hydrogen. In the presence of oxygen at the cathode, the reaction results in the formation of water. As for the microbial electrolytic cell (MEC), it requires additional energy (voltage and current) that the MFC cannot supply spontaneously to ensure biohydrogen production. The additional energy can come from solar panels coupled with a storage system. The efficiency of hydrogen production depends on the optimization of electrocatalytic materials at the anode and cathode, as well as operating conditions (wastewater composition, type of microorganisms, electrolyte flow, etc.). This project aims to explore these optimizations in order to maximize hydrogen production.
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– CCTT involved: Nergica
– University involved : Concordia
– Summary:
In May 2026, Nergica will inaugurate a green hydrogen production facility powered entirely by solar energy. The facility includes a 25 kW electrolyzer and a tank capable of storing 100 kg of hydrogen.
Nergica specializes in integrating renewable energies into microgrids, and will use the hydrogen produced to power a fuel cell integrated into its microgrid.
Among other things, Nergica will be using a hydrogen fuel cell to develop alternatives to diesel generators for powering microgrids.
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– CCTT involved: Kemitek
– University involved: ULaval
– Abstract: Green hydrogen, i.e. hydrogen produced from a renewable energy source (e.g. hydro, wind, solar), currently accounts for only a small percentage of global production, less than 2%. It is therefore essential to propose innovative alternatives and processes for the production of green hydrogen, while promoting socio-economic benefits. In this respect, this project proposes the development of photocathodes based on renewable resources (biomass and industrial waste) for the production of green hydrogen by water electrolysis. To this end, two types of photocathode materials will be prepared and tested under real-life conditions: conductive polymers and graphene nanoribbons. These materials have been selected for their physico-chemical and electronic properties. This project will have a significant economic impact on Quebec by revitalizing value chains, strengthening inter-sectoral links and promoting inter-regional collaboration. It will also have a positive impact on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and promoting energy efficiency.
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Interested in this project? contact us
Interested in this project? contact us
Bioenergy research projects
– CCTT involved: Centre Terre
– University involved: INRS
– Abstract: In order to provide an answer to the problem of fossil fuel use in Nunavik, this RQEI/Escouade Énergie research project aims to model the integration of a pellet-fired boiler, geothermal energy and photovoltaic solar power in order to find economically viable, low-carbon solutions for heating in the far north. Numerical simulations will use feflow (geothermal) and Homer Energy PRO (energy integration) software, which takes into account key parameters such as site climatic conditions (wind speed, temperature, humidity, sunshine, etc.), load profile, customer energy demand, technology and acquisition and operating costs. The future CPA-Centre TERRE laboratory will enable this innovative solution to be tested and optimized before being applied in the north.
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– CCTT involved: Innofibre, SEREX
– University involved: U.Laval
– Summary: The aim of this project is to carry out a comprehensive study of the carbon balance of the thermochemical conversion of 3 residual inputs: post-consumer wood (PCW), disturbance wood (fire residues and contaminated wood, e.g. emerald ash borer) and forest residues. Various thermochemical conversion technologies will be studied (pyrolysis, carbonization, gasification, etc.), including equipment capable of processing pre-commercial quantities. The project includes a complete physico-chemical analysis of inputs and outputs (bio-oils, syngas and biochar); the carbon balance of each technology for each input; and the development of a techno-economic study to demonstrate the most attractive technology(ies) for each residual biomass, in terms of GHG reduction (versus incineration or landfill) and the production of high-value-added compounds. The results should make it possible to define new applications/outlets for these residues, which until now have had little or no value added.
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– CCTT involved: Kemitek
– University involved: UdeS
– Summary: This research project aims to develop innovative catalysts to convert lignin oil into high-quality biofuels by hydrodeoxygenation and hydrogenation to improve stability and energy content. The aim is to create a sustainable biofuel from lignin, helping to reduce dependence on fossil fuels. By combining the expertise of UDS and KEMITEK, this project is part of a circular economy and energy sustainability approach.
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– CCTT involved: SEREX
– University involved: UdeS
– Summary: The overall aim of this project is to produce a higher-quality bio-oil for use as a biofuel in the transport sector, as well as a high-energy synthesis gas by pyrogasification coupled with thermocatalytic reforming. The technological innovation of this project lies in the integration of thermocatalytic reforming of pyrolytic steam as a post-treatment step for pyrolyzed biomass, in the production chain for improved bio-oils and high-energy syngas. Due to the favorable intrinsic characteristics of the biochar produced by the process (varied functional groups, complex structural network, etc.), another innovative aspect involves the use of biochar, with or without functionalization, as a catalyst for improved bio-oil production and syngas purification. Thanks to this project, all pyrolysis co-products will find a new way of valorization, beyond their traditional applications.
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– CCTT involved: IMAR
– University involved: ULaval
– Summary: The aim of the project is to study the stability and property profile of [e-methanol-diesel] and [e-methanol-biodiesel-diesel] blends using stabilizers, in order to provide the marine sector with an alternative fuel (drop-in) with reduced GHG emissions. It includes both physicochemical analyses of the blends, their combustion profile in a marine engine, and molecular dynamics calculations and simulations.
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– CCTT involved: Innofibre, CNETE
– University involved: ULaval, UdeS, INRS
– Summary: Quebec is committed to reducing its greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 37.5% from 1990 levels and its consumption of petroleum products by 40% by 2030, with a view to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050. This reduction could be achieved in particular through the emergence of bioenergy from forest biomass. While it is generally accepted that using forest biomass to produce bioenergy as a substitute for fossil fuels can help combat climate change, the actual contribution of this form of renewable energy to meeting GHG reduction targets is still the subject of much debate.
The project will build on the synergy between the expertise and equipment available at three universities (ULaval, USherbrooke, INRS) and two CCTTs (Innofibre and CNETE). This synergy will generate new data on current and promising technologies for converting forest biomass into bioenergy, providing a solid factual basis for decision-makers concerning emission substitution factors for various forest bioenergy products. These data can also contribute to the development and application of greenhouse gas offset protocols in voluntary and regulatory markets.
In addition, the new knowledge and expertise acquired through this project will complete the roadmap for the use of forest biomass in the form of biofuels and molecules for industrial use, with the main benefit of reducing the consumption of non-renewable raw materials and decarbonizing certain industrial activities.
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Social innovation research projects
– CCTT involved: CERSÉ, Kemitek
– University involved: UQTR, UdS, UQAM
– Summary: The Green Hydrogen and Bioenergy Strategy identifies biofuels as one of the critical sectors for achieving the province’s carbon reduction targets. Yet, despite the sector’s technical maturity and stated political will, biofuel entrepreneurship faces regulatory, economic, logistical and social challenges that hinder its development and potential environmental gains.
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– CCTT involved: CNETE
– University involved: INRS, ULaval, UQTR
– Summary: The global energy transition, propelled by the Paris Agreement and the Net-Zero 2050 objective, is prompting Quebec to develop its Green Hydrogen and Bioenergy Strategy (SQHVB). Green ammonia (NH ), an easily transportable hydrogen carrier, is emerging as a key solution
. However, its production (Haber-Bosch process) is costly, and its suitability for real market needs remains to be defined.
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– CCTT involved: Centre Terre
– University involved: ULaval, UQO
– Objective:
– Produce low-cost green hydrogen from forest residues.
– Obtain a stable and safe biochar with high added value.
– Generate two complementary revenues (hydrogen + biochar).
– Reduce emissions and contribute to carbon neutrality.
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– CCTT involved: CERSÉ, Innofibre
– University involved: UQTR, INRS,
– Private Partner: Municipality of Deschambault-Grondines
– Context:
Quebec’s rural municipalities are an essential link in the transition to bioenergy. Located in areas with the greatest potential for biogenic resources, they are seizing this challenge to improve their attractiveness to businesses. To this end, municipalities such as Deschambault-Grondines and Lac-Mégantic are repositioning their industrial parks as eco-industrial parks. The transition to an eco-industrial park aims to reduce the environmental impact of industrial activities, promote economic competitiveness and address local social issues. The aim of this type of industrial park is to create synergies between companies, thereby reducing residual flows and optimizing the use of resources.
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– CCTT involved: CIRADD, Serex,
– University involved: Ulaval
– Context:
The main aim of the research project is to increase knowledge of the state of the bioenergy sector in Gaspésie, while mobilizing key players to explore transition paths towards bioenergy from forest residues, particularly for the region’s institutional, commercial and industrial (ICI) sector. In addition to providing relevant data to support decision-making processes, the project also aims to equip the sector to strengthen the capacity for collaboration between the various organizations and their resilience in a context of climate and economic change.
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