First Nation in N.S. launches joint venture using sea water to produce jet fuel

ESKASONI - The Eskasoni First Nation in Cape Breton, Nova Scotia, has teamed up with a Nova Scotia clean technology startup called Aeon Blue to develop low-cost fuels for aviation and rocket sectors. The venture, named eFuels Mi’kmaq Limited, aims to produce rocket fuel using a process called saltwater electrochemistry. This technology splits hydrogen from sea water while capturing carbon dioxide from the air, which is then combined to create the fuels.

Eskasoni is investing $1.5 million, bringing the total project cost to $4 million, and will hold a majority ownership stake. The initiative is expected to generate about 80 jobs and provide community members with opportunities in engineering and management. Chief Leroy Denny emphasized the possibility of economic development and environmental responsibility coexisting.