Canada is strategically positioning itself to dominate the electric vehicle (EV) market by focusing on innovation across the entire supply chain—from mining to battery manufacturing and charging infrastructure. As global demand for batteries is poised to surge, the Canadian government is making pivotal investments to ensure the country remains at the forefront of this technological evolution.
“When it comes to the clean economy, Canada’s competitors are increasingly making strategic investments to get ahead. Investing in domestic battery production is one of many ways Canada is supporting innovation-led commercial growth to create long-term economic benefits for Canada while cementing its place in the global battery and minerals sectors. I am pleased to support initiatives that help advance Canadian energy innovation as we deliver on our vision of a net-zero economy,” explained the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources.
In a significant move to bolster battery innovation, the Honourable Jonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, recently announced a substantial funding injection of $10.15 million during his visit to Dalhousie University’s renowned battery research lab. This world-class facility, helmed by the esteemed Drs. Michael Metzger and Chongyin Yang, will now host the Canadian Battery Innovation Centre (CBIC).
“As the world shifts to more electric vehicles, companies are choosing to invest in Canada because we have the resources, the people and the know-how. Through projects like this, we are strengthening Atlantic Canada’s position as a global leader in cutting-edge research and helping secure the jobs of tomorrow,” expressed the Honourable Gudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency.
The unveiling of the CBIC marks a collaborative effort involving key political figures, including the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, MP for Halifax West, and Andy Fillmore, MP for Halifax. This new Centre is set to be a pivotal hub for cutting-edge research, enabling top-tier scientists from across the nation to converge and pioneer next-generation battery technologies.
The CBIC will not only advance high-end battery prototyping but also serve as a crucial training ground for industry-specific skills in battery cell manufacturing. This initiative is designed to cultivate a specialized workforce, essential for sustaining Canada’s burgeoning battery sector.
“The Canadian Battery Innovation Centre will provide our world-renowned battery scientists with a powerful tool, enabling them to rapidly envision, produce and test new batteries while collaborating with industry. This state-of-the-art facility will be a magnet for industry, fostering a research and development hub in Nova Scotia that promises to transform the science, the sector and the greening of our economy,” said Dr. Alice Aiken, Vice-President, Research and Innovation, Dalhousie University.
Through these strategic investments, the Canadian government is harnessing the country’s natural and intellectual resources, ensuring economic growth and job creation while cementing Canada’s status as a leader in the global battery innovation arena.
