Ontario Construction News staff writer
Two projects in Greater Sudbury will receive funding from the federal government to purchase and incorporate mining equipment powered by batteries and electric motors.
This investment will support NORCAT’s transition to a green operation through revamping and upgrading of infrastructure.
“The shift to green technology presents so many opportunities for Northern Ontario. With the ever-increasing global demand for electric vehicles and our robust supply of resources and expertise, Northern Ontario is ready to deliver,” said Patty Hajdu, minister responsible for FedNor.
“This investment of over $2 million in Cambrian College and NORCAT accelerates our emerging Battery Electric Vehicles market and supports a successful and sustainable transition to a low-carbon economy.”
Cambrian College will receive $682,320 to establish a BEV Lab within its Centre for Smart Mining, a nationally recognized Technology Access Centre, located in the Glencore Centre for Innovation.
Once complete, the BEV lab will allow research staff, students, and faculty to work with industry partners to test and refine industrial BEV technology. This includes providing advanced support services to small businesses and mining companies for testing batteries, powertrains and electric motors for industrial equipment, as well as facilitating specialized training of employees on heavy-duty BEV maintenance.
“NORCAT is a global leader in skilled labour training and development, and FedNor’s support is helping to make sure we remain a one-stop shop for all that is the future of mining technology and innovation,” said Don Duval, CEO, NORCAT.
“This funding will foster a green transition not only with us at NORCAT, but with our community partners and fellow innovative companies. Today’s announcement will help us continue to drive future economic and social prosperity for Canadians.”
