The challenge aims to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and increase energy efficiency by identifying alternative methods for generating hot water for mining and extraction processes in the oil sands. Other industry sectors that could benefit from these technologies include water treatment, pulp and paper, and other mining sectors.

The ARCTIC Challenge series is run by the Advanced Resource Clean Technology Innovation Centre (ARCTIC), Foresight’s flagship programme. The Mining Hot Water Production Challenge isthe first ARCTIC Challenge to be sponsored by the federal and Alberta governments, inpartnership with COSIA. The alliance said it represents the collective ambition of Canadian government and industry to work together on solutions that drive low-carbon, sustainable growth and reduce environmental impacts.

“The Mining Hot Water Production Challenge is a tremendous opportunity for cutting-edge innovators to develop solutions that companies need,” said Neil Huff, managing director of Foresight.

“The ARCTIC programme connects entrepreneurs with industry on real-life problems, as well as with the funding, support and mentoring they need to develop and commercialise their products.”

“In Canada’s oil sands, we are fortunate to have some of the world’s best minds partnering with COSIA companies,” said Dan Wicklum, COSIA’s chief executive. “We know that focusing a challenge, and bringing the brightest minds together to face that challenge through successful platforms like the ARCTIC program, propels us towards solutions.”

The deadline for proposals is December 16, 2016. Shortlisted candidates will be selected in January 2017, followed by a Challenge Sprint process in which a total of C$500,000 in funding will be available for two to five candidates to advance their solutions.

Following the Challenge Sprint, one solution will be selected for additional funding for field testing. Full details are available here