TIMMINS — The Ontario government is investing $11.3 million in five major forestry innovation projects in Northeastern Ontario, reinforcing its commitment to support the province’s forest sector workers, protect jobs, and modernize local economies with clean technology.
The funding, announced by Associate Minister of Forestry and Forest Products Kevin Holland, is being delivered through the Forest Biomass Program and is focused on projects that utilize underused wood and mill by-products — commonly referred to as forest biomass.
“Our government is making strategic investments to protect jobs, protect communities and protect Ontario,” said Holland. “We’re ensuring our forest sector businesses are ready to adapt, compete and thrive, putting made-in-Ontario wood products first.”
Key recipients include:
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Hornepayne Power Inc. – Receiving $7.5 million to upgrade power generation systems and explore green hydrogen production on-site.
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GreenFirst Forest Products Inc. – Awarded nearly $3 million to modernize its cogeneration plant and an additional $130,000 for research into torrefied pellets as a green coal alternative.
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Circular Carbon Canada Inc. – Granted $500,000 to explore the feasibility of pyrolysis plants at northeastern sawmill sites to produce biochar, a carbon-rich product with environmental uses.
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Wikwemikong Development Commission – Receiving $200,000 to advance a combined wood pellet and biocoal facility with support for permitting and business development.
The announcement also included support for a Timmins-based feasibility study into the production of biomass and biochar from forestry by-products, creating new clean energy prospects in the region.
“Forestry has always been a cornerstone of the economy in Northeastern Ontario — a sector built on hard work, local expertise, and the ability to adapt,” said Timmins MPP George Pirie. “This study will explore practical ways to turn forestry by-products into clean energy and bring new jobs to our community.”
The Forest Biomass Program is part of Ontario’s long-term vision to reduce waste, build clean energy capacity, and promote economic development in northern communities. The program invests up to $20 million annually to develop biomass solutions in partnership with Indigenous communities, industry stakeholders, and local governments.
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