Grant: Applied Research and Development Grants - Level 1

The College of New Caledonia, Cleaners Laundromat and Skeena Energy Solutions are collaborating to research and develop a low-power waste-heat recovery system for northern greenhouses that will provide a cost-effective technology to control greenhouse temperatures. Outcomes from this research project will help Cleaners Laundromat use technology to extend their growing season and produce vegetables outside of the traditional growing season. This will help supply local markets with year-round fresh, locally grown produce, thereby creating new business and employment opportunities in northern communities. This research project will contribute to the College's research work into developing innovative horticulture technologies for cold climates. Students involved in this project will learn skills and technologies related to: (i) innovative horticulture technology to extend the growing season in northern climates; (ii) prototype design and implementation; (iii) heat pump technology and applications; (iv) data collection, energy calculation and feedback systems. This will help develop the skills needed to support a viable and innovative horticulture sector in northern British Columbia.