Two B.C. companies are receiving provincial support to deploy clean-energy technology that strengthens backup power reliability for general aviation aircraft in B.C., replacing diesel generators with battery storage to keep critical services, such as wildfire response, medical transport and search and rescue, running during emergencies.

With as much as $1 million being provided through B.C.’s Integrated Marketplace, Abbotsford-based Fast Air will deploy a mobile battery and solar power system developed by Richmond-based Holinova at the Abbotsford International Airport. The system is designed to power ground equipment and aircraft charging needs without relying on the electrical grid, providing a cleaner alternative to traditional diesel-powered backup power systems and helping maintain operations during outages or high-demand situations.

The project is anticipated to improve charging efficiency, support flexible aircraft movements and enhance operational resilience during periods of peak demand or grid disruptions.

“B.C. is home to world-class innovators building technology that keeps our province running,” said Adrian Dix, acting Minister of Jobs and Economic Growth. “Through our Look West economic plan and the Integrated Marketplace, we’re supporting companies like Fast Air and Holinova as they replace fossil fuels with clean battery storage, strengthening backup power for the aircraft behind wildfire response, medical transport and search and rescue. That means safety for people, cleaner air, good jobs and B.C. companies scaling into new markets, which is exactly what Look West is built to do.”