Vancouver's climate tech ecosystem got a boost this week as NorthX Climate Tech announced $1.6 million in funding for three Canadian energy storage companies, two of which call the Lower Mainland home.

The BC-based innovation funder selected Vancouver's Futuri Power and Richmond's Foreseeson Technology, alongside Alberta's Aqua-Cell Energy, through a competitive call for proposals developed with BC Hydro. It's part of a broader push to commercialize energy storage solutions that can help B.C.'s grid handle growing electricity demand without massive infrastructure overhauls.

"This is about more than just backing promising tech," said Sarah Goodman, NorthX's president and CEO. "We're accelerating solutions that will shape British Columbia's clean energy future."

The three companies are each tackling different pain points in energy storage:

Futuri Power has built a bidirectional energy system that turns EVs and stationary batteries into grid assets. Instead of just drawing power, vehicles can send electricity back to the grid when needed—a concept that could help smooth out demand spikes.

Foreseeson Technology is working on fast DC charging integrated with energy storage. The goal: make EV charging as quick as filling a gas tank, without the expensive grid upgrades utilities typically need for high-speed chargers.

Aqua-Cell Energy, though Alberta-based, is piloting its saltwater battery technology at a microgrid in Victoria. The company's approach avoids the critical minerals that have made conventional battery supply chains a geopolitical headache.

BC Hydro's involvement signals just how urgent the energy storage question has become. As the province electrifies everything from vehicles to heating systems, the grid needs more flexibility to balance supply and demand.

"Energy storage is essential to building a clean, reliable and resilient electricity system," said Charlotte Mitha, BC Hydro's president and CEO. The partnership with NorthX is meant to support technologies that help customers manage their energy use while reducing strain on the grid during peak hours.

Energy Minister Adrian Dix framed the announcement as evidence that BC is leading on clean energy innovation: "The future is now in British Columbia, where we're advancing creative solutions and new technologies."

Since launching in 2021, NorthX has now put $41.2 million into 68 projects. The organization estimates those investments will create more than 850 jobs over the next two years and pull in over $425 million in follow-on funding—capital that might otherwise flow to Silicon Valley or other tech hubs.