A Southeast Saskatchewan research project is drawing international attention and helping position the region as a hub for innovation and emerging technologies.
The Petroleum Technology Research Centre’s (PTRC) Aquistore project, based near Estevan’s Boundary Dam, has earned the Suzanne West Environmental Excellence Award. The honour was presented at the Global Energy Show in Calgary.
Gord More, executive director of the Southeast Techhub (SETH), said the award reinforces the region’s leadership in applied research and large-scale infrastructure.
“The recognition of Aquistore really validates the potential that we at Southeast Techhub saw back when we launched in 2022,” said More.
“Southeast Saskatchewan is one of just a few places in the world with proven, working carbon storage infrastructure. That gives us a unique advantage, not just in energy, but in technology development, investment attraction and long-term economic growth.”
More said demand for responsibly produced materials and resources has been growing steadily in global markets.
“A great example is our hydrogen-from-coal project. By incorporating carbon storage, we are opening up new market opportunities for Saskatchewan resources and creating room for new commercial ventures.”
Aquistore plays a key role in SETH’s broader goal to support a more diverse and resilient regional economy.
“Our strategy is to enable multiple pathways forward. Not just oil or gas. Not just renewables,” said More. “Captured carbon can be used in advanced manufacturing, battery chemistry and even underground energy storage.”
More said SETH is already working with early-stage companies through its RISE incubator to explore these kinds of applications.
“Carbon is an incredibly versatile element,” he said. “We want southeast Saskatchewan to become a sandbox for carbon innovation, a place where people can test, iterate and scale new technologies.”
Looking ahead, More said SETH is preparing to launch a new investment attraction and marketing strategy.
“The first phase, including an interactive investment website, will be unveiled at the ICED Rural Innovation Conference in Estevan this September.".
“We have the resources, the infrastructure, the talent, and now we are building the tools to share that story with investors and developers around the world.”
More said the Aquistore project is proof that rural regions can lead in innovation.
“This shows we are not just supporting change from the sidelines. We are driving it.”