Quebec has passed Bill 17 into law. The legislation, which in part authorizes the implementation of government-backed natural hydrogen pilot projects, received royal assent on June 12, 2026.
Unlike manufactured hydrogen, natural hydrogen is generated deep underground and is essentially free of methane and carbon dioxide. It is a highly sought-after resource for governments looking to decarbonize energy grids.
Quebec Innovative Materials Corporation (QIMC), a company that currently holds a 5,000-metre drilling permit in the Abitibi-Témiscamingue region of Quebec, celebrated the announcement in a news release. Having previously spoken in support of the bill in the National Assembly, QIMC said it plans to immediately engage with the ministry of economy, innovation and energy to initiate the pilots.
“Our operational readiness means we can begin translating legislative progress into real-world results almost immediately. Quebec has the geology, the clean energy infrastructure and now the legislative framework,” said John Karagiannidis, the CEO of QIMC.
The proposed drilling sites are located within the traditional hunting and cultural territory of the Témiscamingue First Nation. QIMC said any upcoming exploration will be subject to local community agreements. The company previously signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the First Nation in Oct. 2025 that establishes business contracts and environmental oversight.
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