The University of Victoria (UVic) has partnered with the Centre for Ocean Applied Sustainable Technologies (COAST) to accelerate the development of renewable marine energy and decarbonization technologies in British Columbia. This collaboration has led to the establishment of the BC Marine Energy and Decarbonization Hub, a result of decades of work by various university institutes focused on integrated energy systems and marine energy discovery.
The hub aims to promote and support the application of innovative technologies developed at UVic. It will provide essential services and infrastructure to help local companies test and showcase solutions that advance maritime decarbonization. The initiative is designed to create resilient and cost-effective clean energy options for coastal communities and First Nations, while also contributing to job creation and the broader economy of British Columbia.
The project receives funding from multiple sources, including federal support from Pacific Economic Development Canada and provincial backing from the BC Ministry of Energy and Climate Solutions, along with private contributions from the RBC Foundation. Canada is committed to reducing emissions by 40-45% below 2005 levels by 2030, with specific goals for the maritime sector, including the establishment of green shipping corridors. Recent investments have been made to support clean technology and port infrastructure projects in the region.
