Chemical
Elkem sells Canadian biocarbon business to CHAR Tech in decarbonisation push
The site is now positioned for commercial expansion, with the capacity to reach up to 15,000 tonnes per year of pelletised biocarbon once upgraded
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By ICN Bureau | April 23, 2026
Elkem ASA has agreed to sell its biocarbon business in Saguenay, Québec, Canada, including its pilot and demonstration production facility and proprietary technology, to CHAR Technologies.
In parallel, CHAR Tech will supply Elkem with 62,500 tonnes of biocarbon over five years under a long-term agreement.
The Saguenay site, established in 2022, was originally designed as a pilot and demonstration facility where Elkem developed its proprietary biocarbon pellet process tailored for ferrosilicon production in electric arc furnaces. More recently, the facility produced industrial volumes of biocarbon that were successfully tested at Elkem Métals’ nearby electric arc furnace.
The site is now positioned for commercial expansion, with the capacity to reach up to 15,000 tonnes per year of pelletised biocarbon once upgraded. Under CHAR Tech’s ownership, it will process raw biochar into biocarbon pellets aimed at heavy industrial decarbonisation, particularly supporting ferrosilicon production.
Biocarbon remains central to Elkem’s decarbonisation strategy. The new supply agreement secures a steady flow of material for Elkem’s Canadian and European smelters from CHAR Tech’s expanding production platform.
“Elkem’s strategy centres on leveraging technology-driven solutions and pioneering R&D to advance industrial decarbonisation. Transferring our biocarbon operations in Saguenay to CHAR Tech is an important milestone, allowing us to scale our validated biocarbon process and ensure consistent supply for our global operations.
"This partnership strengthens Elkem’s commitment to producing silicon-based products with the lowest possible carbon footprint, directly supporting our ESG goals and delivering lasting value for our customers and shareholders,” said Charles Tremblay, Elkem’s Chicoutimi plant manager in Canada.
