Wedoany.com Report-Jun 9, Airex Energy, Groupe Rémabec, and SUEZ inaugurated Carbonity, Canada’s first industrial-scale biochar plant, in Port-Cartier, Québec, on May 22, 2025. The facility, a joint venture among the three companies, starts with a 10,000 metric ton annual biochar production capacity, set to triple by 2026, making it North America’s largest and a global leader. Biochar, praised by the IPCC for its carbon sequestration, supports agriculture, construction, and industrial decarbonization.

The plant converts 58,000 tonnes of forestry residues from Groupe Rémabec’s operations into biochar using Airex Energy’s patented CarbonFX™ and DryFX™ technologies. It will sequester 75,000 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent yearly at full capacity, generating carbon credits marketed by First Climate. In 2024, Microsoft committed to purchasing 36,000 credits over three years. The facility creates 75 jobs and supports 550GWh of clean energy production annually from 2026.

Michel Gagnon, CEO of Airex Energy and Chair of Carbonity’s Board, stated: “The inauguration of Carbonity is a true industrial milestone for Québec. Airex Energy’s technology, including our patented CarbonFX and DryFX solutions, is central to this success, and it makes us very proud.” Réjean Paré, President of Groupe Rémabec, added: “At Port-Cartier, we’re betting on innovation and boldness to convert our forest residues into sustainable economic value.”

Yves Rannou, Interim Co-CEO of SUEZ, said: “We are delighted to contribute to this pioneering biochar production project in Canada. Biochar is effective in fighting climate change and aligns with SUEZ’s waste recovery activities.” Patrick Girard, General Manager of Carbonity, noted: “Taking part in this Canadian first is a tremendous source of pride.”

Biochar enhances soil fertility, improves crop yields, and reduces methane emissions in livestock feed. In construction, it lowers the carbon footprint of concrete and asphalt. Cities use it for organic waste processing and flood-resistant “sponge parks.” The plant’s surplus energy, as steam or pyrolytic oil, supports sustainable fuel needs.

Supported by over $16 million from Québec and Canadian governments, the project aligns with regional economic goals. Mélanie Joly, Canada’s Minister of Industry, stated: “Biochar is a key solution for carbon sequestration, with additional benefits for agriculture.” Kateri Champagne Jourdain, Québec’s Minister for Côte-Nord, said: “The new automated plant will generate significant economic and social benefits in Côte-Nord.” Alain Thibault, Mayor of Port-Cartier, added: “This is a flagship project that proves environmental protection and economic development can go hand in hand.”

Airex Energy and SUEZ aim for a global biochar production capacity of 350,000 tonnes by 2035, driving decarbonization across industries and fostering sustainable growth in Québec.