OTTAWA - A delegation of Canadian experts will showcase and promote hydrogen and fuel-cell technology during a visit to India from November 30 to December 7, 2004. The Canadian Transportation Fuel Cell Alliance (CTFCA), an initiative led by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), is sponsoring the delegation. The delegation will meet with potential Indian partners, buyers, agents, distributors and policy-makers. It will begin its tour in New Delhi, continue to Ahmedabad to participate in Energy Expo and EnConvergence 2004, and finish in Mumbai. "The delegation to India is a prime example of the Government of Canada's commitment to being a world leader in the support and encouragement of a transition to a hydrogen economy," said the Honourable R. John Efford, Minister of Natural Resources Canada. "Through the work of these Canadians, we will share new and innovative clean energy technologies that will help us and India meet our climate change and environmental goals, while strengthening ties between our countries." The delegation comprises representatives from Dynetek Industries Ltd.; FTI International Inc.; the Hydrogen Research Institute, Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières; Hydrogenics Corporation; IMW Industries Ltd.; Industry Canada; NRCan; QuestAir Technologies Inc.; the Saskatchewan Research Council; and Stuart Energy Systems. By demonstrating Canada's expertise and products through matchmaking and networking events, the delegation aims to enhance the business, trade and investment climate in India for Canadian hydrogen and fuel-cell companies and help Canadian businesses increase exports. Canada has achieved its current position as a global industry leader in green energy technology, in large part, through a high level of collaboration between government and industry. The Government of Canada, through departments such as NRCan, is involved in all stages of the hydrogen and fuel-cell innovation spectrum, from research and development to market demonstration and commercialization activities. Canada had record exports to India in 2003, valued at $732.8 million and there continue to be significant opportunities for trade and investment in areas of demonstrated Canadian expertise, including information technology, transportation and biotechnology. India is one of the largest economies in the world and is poised to make tremendous economic strides over the next 10 years. The CTFCA was established in 2001 to demonstrate and evaluate various options for providing the hydrogen to power fuel-cell vehicles in Canada. CTFCA members represent more than 50 governments, associations and businesses that play a key role in Canada's hydrogen and fuel-cell industry. This initiative enhances the quality of life of Canadians by contributing to knowledge, innovation and technology in the natural resources sectors, which are a vital part of Canada's economy and society. It also supports the Government of Canada's commitment to building on the strength of our country and our people. Additional information about the delegation and its participants is available at www2.nrcan.gc.ca/CETC-India. A schedule of event times and locations is available at www2.nrcan.gc.ca/CETC-India/businessprogram.html. FOR BROADCAST USE: A Canadian delegation of experts from the hydrogen and fuel-cell industry will visit India from November 30 to December 7. The 10-member delegation, sponsored by the Government of Canada, will showcase and promote Canadian expertise in alternative fuel technology. For more information, media may contact: Ghyslain Charron Media Relations Natural Resources Canada (613) 992-4447 Tom Ormsby Director of Communications Office of the Minister Natural Resources Canada (613) 996-2007
