The Council of the First Nation of the Abenakis of Wolinak in Quebec and Questerre Energy Corporation reported that they have signed a joint economic development agreement. The joint venture will focus on developing a net-zero emissions energy hub in Quebec. The hub will demonstrate the emerging circular economy through pilot projects that produce clean energy, including zero-emissions gas, and assess new carbon recycling technology.

These could include the production of methanol, fertilizer as well as cement additives and other high value products using captured carbon dioxide. The hub will also evaluate the potential for carbon dioxide sequestration as well as the production of clean hydrogen using technology developed by ZEG Power, a Norwegian-based company. Questerre executed a letter of intent with ZEG Power last year to evaluate their proprietary technology.

Subject to final agreements, the Abenakis of Wolinak will be granted a net profit interest from development on their traditional territories in the Becancour area. The Abenakis of Wolinak will also have the opportunity to acquire a working interest in the exploration licenses from Questerre and directly participate in future development. The parties have committed to the use of local contractors where capacity exists, specifically Wolinak contractors on traditional territories.

Based on its previous experience with First Nations in Western Canada, Questerre will use reasonable efforts to help the Abenakis of Wolinak build their contracting capacity.