Richard Froese
South Peace News
Big Lakes County is willing to help an energy company find grants to help launch an ammonia synthesis plant demonstration project in the county.
At its regular meeting Nov. 13, council approved a motion to direct administration to work with McAlpha Inc. to research external grant opportunities to cover costs of the demonstration plant and to identify any available land in the county that would be suitable for the project.
McAlpha is a pioneering energy solutions company dedicated to addressing the challenges of global warming and climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions through technological innovations, CAO David Reynolds told council.
He provided further information from the company.
“McAlpha proposes to locate our Catalytic Membrane Reactor (EMR) technology ammonia demonstration plant in Big Lakes County after its construction and testing at the Alberta Carbon Conversion Technology Centre,” McAlpha states.
Big Lakes administration presented a recommendation that council provide a sponsorship funding of $150,000, but it was opposed by council.
North Gilwood – Triangle Councillor Jim Zabolotniuk even questioned why the County would help a business research for grants.
“Why are we looking at grants for this company?”
The CAO responded.
“We will look at grant opportunities for the company to benefit the county,” Reynolds replied.
“They are also looking for suitable land in the county.”
McAlpha says the plant has many advantages.
“Our CMR technology offers significant economical, environmental and technological advantages over the traditional Haber Bosch process, with the potential to revolutionize ammonia production,” the company states.
McAlpha says the project has many benefits for the region.
“We believe Big Lakes County is the ideal location for the project and we seek your support to bring this innovative technology to your community,” the company writes.
“Big Lakes County’s prime location offers excellent connectivity to industrial hubs and infrastructure, facilitating efficient operations and collaboration with local industries.”
The project will create jobs, stimulate the local economy and support sustainable agriculture.
“The project will leverage your network to connect us with industry partners who can collaborate on the project, ensuring a successful demonstration and commercialization,” McAlpha says.
Why not use the unused Kathleen Fertilizer Plant near McLennan? It’s owned by government and almost ready to go!