Laurentide Controls and Emerson Back VTE Innovation Center to Boost Quebec’s Energy Transition
Laurentide Controls and Emerson Back VTE Innovation Center to Boost Quebec’s Energy Transition
Laurentide Controls, in collaboration with Emerson, has announced support for the Vallée de la Transition Énergétique (VTE) Innovation Center project in Bécancour, Quebec. This center represents a significant advancement for the province’s energy transition and the growth of industrial innovation.
A New Hub for Energy Innovation in Quebec
The VTE Innovation Center in Bécancour is set to become a pivotal resource for technological development and scaling of solutions related to critical materials and sustainable energy. The center will provide a full spectrum of services, high-tech infrastructure, and advanced equipment to accelerate Quebec’s transition to a low-carbon economy.
This initiative encourages collaboration across academic, institutional, and industrial sectors. The facility will support research, experimentation, and the growth of startups, offering:
- Ready-to-use industrial spaces for emerging technologies
- Advanced technological equipment
- Specialized engineering and testing services
- Collaborative work environments
The primary aim is to ensure ongoing access to these vital resources for industry stakeholders, researchers, educators, and students, fostering an environment primed for breakthrough innovation.
Focus Areas: Driving Sustainable Industrial Growth
Located in Bécancour, the center will focus on advancing and scaling technologies that are central to Quebec’s energy transition, including:
- Processing of strategic minerals and materials
- Production, storage, transport, and use of renewable and low-carbon hydrogen
- Valorization of industrial byproducts, such as carbon dioxide, industrial waste, and heat
Additionally, the center will function as a professional development hub, helping to build expertise in these crucial sectors. By consolidating top-tier infrastructure and sector knowledge, the project aims to reduce innovation costs and improve operational efficiency for all participants.
Industry Commitment to Sustainable Progress
According to Alain Lemieux, President and CEO of VTE, “The engagement of partners like Laurentide Controls and Emerson is essential for the success of the Bécancour innovation center. Our approach is rooted in collaboration and innovation to drive the energy transition. The dedication of these key players helps advance and promote innovation throughout the region.”
Executive Insights from Laurentide Controls
Steve Dustin, President and CEO of Laurentide Controls, commented, “Innovation and teamwork are vital to our mission. Supporting the VTE Innovation Center allows us to help transform Quebec’s industrial landscape toward more sustainable practices and champion local talent.”
Michel Portelance, VP of Strategic Growth and Marketing, added, “Backing the VTE Innovation Center is a testament to our dedication to moving Quebec’s industries forward. Our expertise in automation, predictive maintenance, and digital transformation empowers companies to improve operations, minimize environmental impact, and swiftly integrate new technologies. This project underlines our commitment to responsible and shared industry growth.”
About the Partners
Laurentide Controls
Laurentide Controls is a 100% employee-owned Quebec company and the exclusive Emerson impact partner in Eastern Canada. For over 50 years, it has helped local industries thrive by delivering advanced automation, reliability, instrumentation, and digital solutions to sectors such as renewable energy, mining, agri-food, and petrochemicals. The company plans to open a new center in Bécancour in fall 2025.
Emerson
Emerson is a global technology leader providing advanced solutions in automation, measurement, and digital transformation. Through its network of impact partners, Emerson supports innovative industrial initiatives throughout North America.
Vallée de la Transition Énergétique (VTE)
VTE is dedicated to bringing together leaders from the battery supply chain, transportation electrification, hydrogen, and industrial decarbonization to create a vibrant, sustainable ecosystem. VTE’s mission is to foster a world-class research and innovation environment, advancing decarbonization and sustainable industry growth.
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
