An innovative project in Laval: AIREX Energy receives $2.7 million in funding for the construction of a biomass torrefaction demonstration plant

Laval, February 18, 2013 â LAVAL TECHNOPOLE and Airex Energy are pleased to announce that the latter has received $2.7 million in financial support for the construction of a biomass torrefaction demonstration plant, to be completed by the end of 2013. The public announcement concerning this initiative took place at a press conference held at the MontrÃ©al Science Centre.

With support from the Government of Canada, through Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC), Airex Energy will build and operate a 2 tonnes/hour biomass torrefaction demonstration plant in Laval, Quebec. The companyâs CarbonFX torrefaction technology removes moisture and volatile organic compounds from woody and agricultural biomass in order to produce a dry, blackened material known as biocoal, which is a renewable, carbon-neutral fuel that can replace bituminous coal and fuel oil in combustion, filtration and metallurgical applications. We are extremely grateful for the financial support that SDTC has provided Airex Energy. It is through their innovation, talent, commitment and perseverance that our companies will be able to meet competitive challenges and make a name for themselves on the international business scene. That such infrastructure is being developed here is very good news for Laval, as it fits in with the Cityâs intention to institute a comprehensive program for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, pointed out Pierre Desroches, President and Executive Director of LAVAL TECHNOPOLE. Our government is doing its part to foster innovation and provide support for the next wave of green technologies, which will help protect our environment and create high-quality jobs. The fact that we are investing in projects such as this demonstrates our leadership in ensuring the expansion of a dynamic Canadian industry developing environmentally friendly technologies, stated the Honourable Joe Oliver, Canadaâs Minister of Natural Resources. SDTC is proud to add this initiative to its portfolio of projects, which now totals over $2 billion. Once Canadian companies purchase and use these technologies, a whole range of industries will be able to grow their share of the world market. As Canada is endeavouring to diversify its export markets by working with new trade partners in emerging economies, such innovative technologies will help make Canadian natural resources and products more attractiveâand thus more competitiveâinternationally, declared Vicky Sharpe, President and CEO of SDTC.

About Airex Energy

A world leader in the design and manufacturing of biocoal production equipment, Airex Energy has operated a Laval, Quebec pilot plant using the CarbonFX process since March 2011. Along with a number of renowned partners, Airex Energy has contributed to various research and development projects exploring innovative bio-coal applications.

About SDTC

Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) is an independent foundation funded by the Government of Canada, which to date has provided SDTC with a total of $1.09 billion in grants as part of its commitment to creating a sustainable environment and superior quality of life for all Canadians. SDTC operates two funds aimed at the development and demonstration of innovative technological solutions. The $590 million SD Tech Fundâ¢ supports projects that address climate change, air quality, clean water, and clean soil. The $500 million NextGen Biofuels Fundâ¢ supports the establishment of first-of-kind, large demonstration-scale facilities for the production of next-generation renewable fuels. SDTC is a non-profit corporation. In order to fulfill its mandate, it works with both the public and private sectors, including industry, the university community, NGOs, and all levels of government.

About LAVAL TECHNOPOLE

LAVAL TECHNOPOLE is responsible for promoting and ensuring economic development in Laval. LAVAL TECHNOPOLEâs centres of excellence are the BIOPOLE, e-POLE, AGROPOLE, the technology intensive INDUSTRIAL POLE and the LEISURE AND TOURISM POLE.

Contact: Airex Energy

Sylvain Bertrand Vice-President â Corporate Development 514.351.2303 sbertrand@airex-energie.com

Contact: Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC)

Patrice Breton Director, Communications 613.234.6313, ext. 295 media@sdtc.ca

Source: Sylvie Gauthier

Director, Marketing and Communications Laval Technopole 450.978.5961 sylvie.gauthier@lavaltechnopole.com