CHAR selects TWD for Thorold, Ont., pyrolysis technology facility

CHAR Technologies has selected TWD Technologies as their engineering partner for the expansion of their innovative high temperature pyrolysis technology facility in Thorold, Ont.

CHAR Tech is a pioneer in cleantech project development, specializing in high temperature pyrolysis (HTP), converting woody materials and organic waste into renewable gases (renewable natural gas and green hydrogen) and biocarbon (activated charcoal SulfaCHAR and solid biofuel CleanFyre).

TWD is a leading engineering and construction management company who is an advanced player in sustainable energy solutions. The partnership represents a collaboration of vision and expertise, with TWD bringing its wealth of experience in project development, engineering and construction to the table.

This project is backed by the Governments of Canada and Ontario, with an investment exceeding $11.3 million to expand CHAR Tech’s commercial high temperature pyrolysis facility in Thorold. The expansion will play a vital role in contributing to a low-carbon economy, aligning with Canada’s Net Zero targets by utilizing low-grade wood as an alternative fuel source.

“The CHAR Tech team conducted an extensive evaluation of potential partners for this project, aiming to find a seasoned group that aligns seamlessly with our team’s vision.” explained Andrew White, CEO of CHAR Tech. “We look forward to collaborating with the TWD team to ensure the project’s success.”

A collaborative, “best for project” mindset will be pivotal to the realization of the Thorold facility’s full potential. CHAR Tech and TWD engineers will play a crucial role in ensuring the facility’s seamless operation, optimal efficiency, and adherence to the highest environmental and safety standards.

This innovative facility will transform wood waste into renewable natural gas (RNG) and biocarbon. This transformation not only diverts large quantities of waste from landfills or burn sites but also contributes to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 30,000 tonnes. This reduction is equivalent to taking more than 9,000 passenger vehicles off the road.

The Thorold facility will be the largest of its kind in Canada and the only RNG facility in the country to exclusively use woody biomass. It will have the capacity to annually produce 10,000 tonnes of biocarbon and 500,000 gigajoules of RNG which is enough gas to heat 5,500 Ontario homes.

The facility is scheduled to enter its final construction phase in 2024, during which the essential equipment will be installed to upgrade the facility’s syngas output to pipeline injectable RNG.

“CHAR Tech’s accomplishments to date are impressive and they have a number of great opportunities in front of them with their technology,” said Scott Wilson, founding partner at TWD. “Our team at TWD is excited to be part of the project and look forward to adding significant value to the execution of this project and future projects.”