As the Canadian sector transitions from a research and development phase to a commercialization phase, its recognition is reflected through strong international commercial demand for fuel cell powered buses, forklifts, back-up, stationary power, and hydrogen production, distribution and storage. Canadian technologies are also an important part of growing renewable energy systems across the world, by integrating with wind and solar technologies to help balance electrical loads. A supply chain has emerged that provides parts, components, testing equipment, and engineering and financial services to global hydrogen and fuel cell technology developers.

International commercial traction coincides with already being strong domestic uptake and deployment of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies by significant Canadian corporate and institutional entities such as BC Transit, Walmart, Enbridge Gas, Wind Mobile, and BC Hydro.

It is also important to note that Canadian leadership in the sector is attracting significant inward investment and fuelling job creation in Canada. Recently, Daimler invested $70 million CAD to create an automotive fuel cell manufacturing plant in Burnaby, BC, the first of its kind in the world.

Approximately 90% of Canadian hydrogen and fuel cell technology is exported, and the industry presents a promising technology-based export sector for Canada.

Largely consisting of small and medium sized enterprises and research organizations across the country, the sector currently employs 2,000 Canadians in highly-skilled, clean-tech jobs.