
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Answers to the most frequently asked questions about the project.
ABOUT HY2GEN
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We are a company that develops and operates projects for renewable fuels from non-biological sources (RFNBO). We specialize in producing green hydrogen and its derivatives using renewable energy. Currently, we have 15 GW of projects in development across Europe and North America.
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We have green ammonia production projects using renewable hydrogen produced by electrolysis in Norway, Paraguay, France, and Germany. In Germany, Hy2gen has been operating an industrial site for over a year that produces green hydrogen and hydrogen-based e-fuels.
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Our financial investors are:
Hy24: the first and largest private asset manager in the world dedicated to hydrogen.
Mirova: a management company focused on investment solutions that combine financial performance with environmental and social impact.
Caisse de dépôt et placement du Québec (CDPQ): a global investment group that manages Quebec's pension plan and several other public and semi-public pension and insurance plans in Quebec.
Technip Energies: a leading technology and engineering company, leader in energy infrastructure and decarbonization.
Trafigura: the world's second-largest commodities trading company.
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Green chemistry uses non-toxic or low-toxicity molecular processes to reduce carbon footprints and minimize the production of hazardous substances for the environment and human health. In the Courant project, we will produce hydrogen and ammonia using hydroelectricity, significantly reducing GHG emissions compared to traditional methods.
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All hydrogen will be used on-site to produce green ammonia.
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Green ammonia will be used exclusively to produce ammonium nitrate, a key component in explosives for the mining industry.
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Water will be sourced from the municipal potable and raw water networks of Baie-Comeau. The raw water, supplied by the city, will come from Lac à la Chasse. To ensure responsible management, the water used in the process will be treated on-site and reused in a closed-loop system, minimizing impact on local resources.
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Any export of hydrogen or its derivative, ammonia, is prohibited. This is a condition for using the electricity allocation that has been granted to us.
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None. At this stage, we do not plan to request public financial assistance.
ABOUT THE COURANT PROJECT
IMPACTS OF THE COURANT PROJECT
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Construction is expected to begin in 2027, with commissioning planned for 2030.
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The project represents a two billion investment (2 $B).
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The plant will be located more than 4 km away from the nearest residential and commercial areas. Strict safety measures will be in place to prevent risks related to the storage and transport of ammonia and hydrogen.
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The project will produce green ammonia, mainly to decarbonize industrial sectors that are difficult to electrify. By using hydrogen generated from hydroelectricity instead of natural gas, we will significantly cut CO₂ emissions. The exact reduction will be detailed in the impact study. For reference, traditional ammonia production using natural gas emits 1.9 tons of CO₂ per ton of ammonia produced.
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Water discharges will be directed to Lac Petit Bras, but only after being analyzed and stored in a retention basin. Studies will be conducted to minimize any impact on water quality.
SOCIAL ACCEPTABILITY
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We aim to develop a project that aligns with the vision and aspirations of the Côte-Nord community while making a real contribution to its development. Our approach is based on dialogue and transparency, working closely with all stakeholders. Since 2023, we have held information and discussion meetings with regional stakeholders, including government and municipal representatives, industry experts, and members of the economic, environmental, and community sectors.
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We are committed to proactive and inclusive communication throughout the project. Multiple channels will be used to encourage broad participation, including public information sessions and regular meetings with local stakeholders. Our goal is to maintain an open and transparent dialogue and to address questions and concerns. Depending on stakeholder interest, monitoring mechanisms may also be implemented.
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Since the beginning of the project, we have maintained respectful relations with the Innu community of Pessamit. We seek to develop partnerships that respect their values and priorities.
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An office will open in Baie-Comeau, and a dedicated phone line will be available for local inquiries. In the meantime, our website will be regularly updated.