January 6, 2009

VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA – The Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association (CHFCA), a new national association for Canada’s world-recognized hydrogen and fuel cell sector, begins its operations following the successful merger of the Canadian Hydrogen Association and Hydrogen & Fuel Cells Canada. The CHFCA unites the members of the CHA and H2FCC to form a vibrant, influential association that represents the majority of the stakeholders in Canada’s hydrogen and fuel cell sector. 

“Canada’s hydrogen and fuel cell sector is leading the world in volume deployments and sales in key early markets including bus transportation, back-up power, materials handling and hydrogen infrastructure,” said Pierre Gauthier, Chair of the CHA. “As the sector begins to gain commercial traction, the time is right to consolidate and focus its sector leadership.”

With offices in Vancouver, Ottawa and Montreal, the CHFCA will expand the previous efforts of the CHA and H2FCC in championing the sector while providing a greater set of benefits to its members including delivering workshops and conferences, promoting the sector internationally and advocating for continued and enhanced partnerships with Canadian governments.

“The Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association represents a strong, clear voice for the Canadian hydrogen and fuel cell sector,” remarked Stephen Kukucha, Chair of H2FCC. “By continuing to promote the economic, environmental and social benefits of the technology the new association will build upon Canada’s heritage as a world-leading jurisdiction for the development of hydrogen and fuel cells.”

The merger follows successful negotiations and unanimous approval by the respective Boards of Directors’ of the CHA and H2FCC. John W. Tak, former President and CEO of H2FCC, has been appointed President and CEO of the CHFCA. Terry Kimmel, former President and CEO of the CHA, will assume the role of CHFCA’s Vice President.

“The Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association is pleased to represent the diverse range of organizations developing Made-In-Canada technology solutions that make energy use cleaner, reliable, safe and more secure.” said John W. Tak, President & CEO of the Canadian Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Association.

The CHFCA will continue to work closely with government and industry partners on Canada’s existing hydrogen and fuel cell technology demonstration and market development projects: BC’s Hydrogen Highway, Toronto’s Hydrogen Village and the Vancouver Fuel Cell Vehicle Program. The new association will also encourage the commercialization and adoption of hydrogen and fuel cells in Canada.