Kwe’! Hello! Bonjour!
We’re excited to share the latest updates from Planetary’s Halifax Harbour field trial, where our journey to combat climate change is making waves—literally!
Since December 2nd, 2024 we have been running our Ocean Alkalinity Enhancement (OAE) system 24/7-in Halifax Harbour. This marks a big step forward in our mission to continue developing safe, effective, and scalable carbon dioxide removal (CDR) technology. By going full-time, we’re moving closer to the goals we set for 2024 and 2025.
This planned transition to a 24-hour dosing schedule is supported by months of trials and detailed environmental monitoring in collaboration with leading researchers at Dalhousie University. The Dosing taking place at Nova Scotia Power’s Tufts Cove Generating Station, showcases our ability to operate continuously while staying safe and within regulations.
This phase of the field trial is advancing our scientific understanding. Dr. Will Burt, our chief ocean scientist, summed it up perfectly:
“It’s a big deal to take this step forward in proving the viability of OAE as a climate solution.The data we’ve collected so far supports moving to this phase. A prolonged consistent addition will allow us to better measure and model how the alkaline material disperses across the harbour, while also facilitating better measurement of the positive climate impact of our work.”
As part of our ongoing commitment to transparency and community engagement, we will continue to monitor the process and share updates.
Here are some highlights from Halifax that show we’re not just about science—there’s a human side to the work too!
- Fighting the Cold: We’re learning about operating these systems in below-freezing weather. We have been adding heating lines to our piping and also ensuring there are lots of hot beverages for our operators!
- Winter Science Bonus: Now that it’s wintertime, plankton growth is minimal. This means our small OAE “signals” are even clearer for us to see. Put simply, we are able to track our impact and work even more clearly during the winter months.
- Welcoming Indigenous Community: Recently we hosted Eric Christmas on site. Eric, who has dedicated his life to advancing the interests of the Indigenous community in Nova Scotia, shared his valuable insights. Of the project, Eric says, “Planetary Technologies’ approach to carbon capture by way of adjusting ocean alkalinity is truly revolutionary. Using the ocean’s own abilities to internally capture carbon as opposed to external carbon capture sinks like old growth forests, represents a new innovative approach to tackling climate change. The Tuft’s Cove project represents a new and exciting tool that Nova Scotians can be proud is homemade.”
- Communications: We are thrilled to announce the upcoming launch of our Halifax Project Facebook Page. Once live, it will be a hub for updates, behind the scene stories and community connections. In the meantime, follow our LinkedIn page.
Continue To Expect:
- Visible Operations: You’ll spot our team and equipment at Nova Scotia Power’s Tufts Cove Generating Station along the southern property line. Give us a wave if you see us!
- Monitoring and Data Sharing: Real-time monitoring ensures everything stays safe and within limits. Regulators and researchers receive regular updates.
- Community Updates: Stay in the loop through newsletters, social media, and our website www.planetarytech.com.
For more information about the project or to receive updates, please contact halifaxproject@planetarytech.com.
Wela’lioq, thank you, merci for being part of this journey with us! Together, we’re shaping a cleaner, healthier future.