Harper Government Supports Development of Innovative Clean Energy Technology and Jobs in Winnipeg

WINNIPEG, MANITOBA--(Marketwire - Oct. 26, 2012) - Lawrence Toet, Member of Parliament for Elmwood-Transcona, on behalf of the Honourable Joe Oliver, Canada's Minister of Natural Resources, today announced the Harper Government's support for jobs and development of innovative clean energy technology in Winnipeg. Our government is contributing $3.4 million through Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) to help New Flyer Industries develop and implement its rapid-charge battery-electric bus propulsion technology. Mr. Toet was joined by Sailesh Thaker, Vice-President of SDTC.

"Today's announcement is welcome news for our community. Our government is helping Canadian business develop innovative new energy technologies and create Canadian jobs - including right here in Winnipeg," said Lawrence Toet, Member of Parliament for Elmwood - Transcona. "This electric bus technology developed by New Flyer Industries is an example of clean energy innovation that provides Canadians with high-quality jobs and contributes to our long term prosperity."

"This is a clear example of what cleantech can do: we have here a technology that will bring down operational costs while reducing emissions," said Vicky Sharpe, President and CEO of SDTC. "Together with its partners, New Flyer will put this technology to the test - a move that could revolutionize Canada's transportation industry."

"We're really 'charged up' by the interest in our battery-electric bus," said Paul Soubry, New Flyer's President and Chief Executive Officer. "This important project further allows us to execute on our electrification project development. It pushes closer to the critical point of cost-effective commercialization of this propulsion technology in bus applications. We acknowledge the Canadian Government's recognition of the need to push the electrification agenda and appreciate their substantial support in developing a sustainable future in battery-electric bus technology. This project will provide invaluable insight into day-to-day real-world battery-electric operational issues."

New Flyer Industries will develop and build four electric buses and a high-capacity charging station. The company will then carry out a four-year in-service evaluation of a small fleet of buses with Winnipeg Transit to examine the charging system, battery capacity and component life and reliability. In addition to having a number of positive benefits for the environment, the use of electric buses could also significantly reduce operating costs and total life cycle costs when compared with diesel and hybrid buses.

On behalf of the Government of Canada, SDTC supports the development of Canadian clean technologies, readying them for growth and export markets. With a portfolio of companies under management valued at more than $2 billion, SDTC supports the cleantech industry which is a key driver of jobs, productivity and economic prosperity.

SDTC operates two funds aimed at the development and demonstration of innovative technological solutions. The $590 million SD Tech Fund(TM) supports projects that address climate change, air quality, clean water, and clean soil. The $500 million NextGen Biofuels Fund(TM) supports the establishment of first-of-kind large demonstration-scale facilities for the production of next-generation renewable fuels.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Patrice Breton
Director, Communications
SDTC
(613) 234-6313 x295
media@sdtc.ca


Carly Wolff
Press Secretary
Office of Canada's Minister of Natural Resources
613-996-2007