Terramera, Translink among winners of 2022 BC Cleantech Awards

It was a big night for those in the province trying to advance clean energy initiatives. Moderated by some guy named William Johnson and his sweater vest, the 2022 BC Cleantech Awards, presented by the country’s cleantech accelerator Foresight Canada, handed out awards to winners in 10 different categories.

Even if you’re not overly familiar with the sector, there were plenty of names that one might expect to be called. Chief among those were Terramera CEO Karn Manhas, who took home the Industry Icon award. Pangea Ventures, which has been investing in the space for decades, saw partner Sarah Applebaum get recognized as an Ecosystem Builder.

Government players like federal minister of natural resources Jonathan Wilkinson (Policy Maker) and Translink (Transformation Advocate) were also recognized, while entrepreneurship@ubc grabbed the Education Institution title in what can’t be considered a major shock.

But there were a slew of other, slightly lesser-known winners as well. BCIT director of research Hassan Farhangi was named Top Educator, in part for his school’s work in a partnership with the Łutsël K'é First Nation that saw BCIT help train the Nation to operate and maintain clean power plants virtually.

Burnaby-based Ekona Power won the Rising Star award for its technology that converts natural gas into hydrogen and solid carbon. And North Vancouver’s HTEC was crowned Thriving Company thanks to its work in building hydrogen supply solutions and station networks to support the rollout of fuel cell electric vehicles.

Rounding out the list were Community Impact winners Kanaka Bar Indian Band, which partnered with the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology to build climate-resilient houses to home displaced band members and Lytton residents, and Innovation Funder winner Active Impact Investments.

The evening also hit a sombre note, as Anitra Paris was recognized posthumously for her contributions to sustainability with the Sustainability Champion Award.

“Anitra was a passionate and dedicated sustainability advocate, eager to create a low-carbon future through climate action and renewable energy,” said Foresight CEO Jeanette Jackson.

“Throughout her life, Anitra touched many people with her passion, enthusiasm, and willingness to collaborate, and we are honoured today to be celebrating her life and achievements. Thank you, Anitra, for your hard work and dedication.”