A clean energy storage project on the province’s west coast is moving forward following a study which confirms its stability and suitability.

The Fischells Salt Dome, owned by Triple Point Resources, is located in Bay St. George.

A salt dome is a naturally-occurring geologic formation. If given the right approvals, caverns would be created within the dome, which Triple Point Resources would use to store things like compressed air and, eventually, hydrogen

According to the company, a recent study conducted by MITACS, a non-profit research company, confirmed strong thermodynamic stability and suitability of the site for clean-energy storage.

CEO Julie Lemieux says having the dome fully operational is still a long way away. Right now the company is completing a feasibility study and engaging with the community.

Lemieux says they hope to register the project by next March, and by that time they are also hoping to have clarity from NL Hydro on where they want to go in terms of a Request for Proposals or Request for Information.

She says that was supposed to happen last month, but that was delayed because of the election. She says they know they can “help the grid” and give Hydro  “more tools in their toolbox” to support ratepayers.