Hillcrest Energy Technologies Announces Launch of CleanPath Distribution Inc
MWN-AI** Summary
Hillcrest Energy Technologies Ltd. has announced the establishment of CleanPath Distribution Inc., an Indigenous-led corporation aimed at advancing the commercialization of its innovative Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) power conversion technology in Canada. This operationalization follows a Memorandum of Understanding between Hillcrest, Pasqua First Nation #79 (PFN), and Apeiron Resources Ltd. announced in October 2025. CleanPath is structured with PFN holding a 51% majority stake, while both Apeiron and Hillcrest each own 24.5%. This ownership structure enhances CleanPath’s capability to secure funding and foster essential relationships within the government and industry.
The ZVS technology significantly improves efficiency by reducing switching losses in conventional power converters while also minimizing electromagnetic interference (EMI) and enabling the design of smaller components. Hillcrest retains ownership of its ZVS intellectual property and is responsible for technology development, manufacturing, and certification. Currently, the technology is in the prototype phase, with the PCS1000 Grid Power Conversion System and MVP3 ZVS Traction Inverter set for customer demonstrations by mid-2026.
CEO Don Currie emphasized the significance of CleanPath’s Indigenous leadership and its strategic alignment with Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy, suggesting potential opportunities in the defense sector. The partnership with PFN and Apeiron is intended to leverage local economic development expertise and community engagement.
PFN is actively involved in renewable energy initiatives, including a substantial wind energy project. Apeiron Resources, a certified Indigenous Business, focuses on socio-economic partnerships that empower Indigenous communities. This collaboration highlights Hillcrest’s commitment to integrating Indigenous insights and leadership in its technological pursuits, marking a significant step toward sustainable energy solutions in Canada.
MWN-AI** Analysis
Hillcrest Energy Technologies Ltd. (CSE: HEAT) has initiated an important strategic venture through the launch of CleanPath Distribution Inc., a partnership that leverages Indigenous leadership to enhance its market presence in Canada. This move aligns with rising trends focusing on renewable energy and indigenous economic participation, signaling potential growth for both Hillcrest and its stakeholders.
The CleanPath initiative serves dual purposes: facilitating funding access, particularly from governmental sources, and commercializing Hillcrest’s Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) power conversion technology. The inclusion of Pasqua First Nation #79 as a majority owner not only enhances funding opportunities but also positions CleanPath favorably within Canada's evolving policy framework aimed at promoting Indigenous-led business initiatives.
Hillcrest’s ZVS technology, aimed at reducing energy loss in power conversions, addresses a critical need for efficiency in the renewable sector and could become increasingly sought after as the demand for clean energy solutions intensifies. The prototypes currently in development, such as the PCS1000 Grid Power Conversion System and the MVP3 ZVS Traction Inverter, further solidify Hillcrest’s innovative edge in the automotive and grid energy markets.
Investors should closely monitor developments associated with CleanPath, especially its potential involvement in Canada's Defence Industrial Strategy, which could unveil new revenue streams. Moreover, the strategic alliance with Apeiron Resources Ltd., which emphasizes community investment and Indigenous empowerment, could enhance the firm’s public profile and broaden its appeal among socially conscious investors.
Given these factors, Hillcrest offers an intriguing investment case driven by robust technology, strategic partnerships, and adherence to socially responsible business practices. However, investors should remain cognizant of the inherent risks associated with early-stage ventures, including market volatility and the need for successful execution of CleanPath’s mandate.
**MWN-AI Summary and Analysis is based on asking OpenAI to summarize and analyze this news release.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - March 11, 2026) - Hillcrest Energy Technologies Ltd. (CSE: HEAT) (OTCQB: HLRTF) (FSE: 7HI) ("Hillcrest" or the "Company") today announced the operationalization of CleanPath Distribution Inc. ("CleanPath"), an Indigenous-led Canadian corporation operationalized pursuant to the Memorandum of Understanding between Hillcrest, Pasqua First Nation #79 ("PFN"), and Apeiron Resources Ltd. ("Apeiron") announced on October 14, 2025.
CleanPath Distribution Inc. is an Indigenous-led Canadian corporation operationalized in March 2026 to pursue funding opportunities — including government funding — and to support the commercialization of Hillcrest's Zero Voltage Switching ("ZVS") power conversion technology in Canada. CleanPath's Indigenous-led structure and PFN majority ownership are intended to support its ability to access funding programs and build the government and industry relationships required to pursue the Canadian market.
CleanPath is owned as follows: Pasqua First Nation #79: 51%; Apeiron Resources Ltd.: 24.5%; and Hillcrest Energy Technologies Operating Ltd.: 24.5%. Directors were appointed and shares were issued on March 5, 2026. The entity is governed by a Board of Directors with representation from all three partners. Hillcrest retains full ownership of all ZVS intellectual property and responsibility for technology development, manufacturing execution, and product certification.
Hillcrest's Zero Voltage Switching ("ZVS") power conversion technology reduces the switching losses inherent in conventional power converters, resulting in higher efficiency, lower electromagnetic interference ("EMI"), and smaller, lighter passive components. Efficiency and EMI performance have been measured at European automotive OEM and Tier 1 supplier test benches. Hillcrest's ZVS technology is the subject of two prototypes currently in development: the PCS1000 Grid Power Conversion System, a 200 kW grid-connected power conversion system targeting customer demonstration in Q2 2026; and the MVP3 ZVS Traction Inverter, a 350 kVA Silicon Carbide (SiC) traction inverter prototype validated with multiple automotive OEMs and Tier One suppliers in Europe in an automotive context.
Don Currie, CEO and Director of Hillcrest Energy Technologies Ltd., commented: "CleanPath brings together Pasqua First Nation #79's Indigenous leadership, industry relationships, and market knowledge, Apeiron's expertise in Indigenous economic development, and Hillcrest's ZVS technology."
Mr. Currie continued, "Canada's recently announced Defence Industrial Strategy and the NRC IRAP Defence Industry Assist initiative establish a policy framework for Canadian SME participation in defence R&D. CleanPath's Indigenous-led structure and Hillcrest's Canadian-owned ZVS technology are relevant to that framework, and the Canadian defence sector is a target market for CleanPath's mandate. We are pleased to be taking this step with our partners at Pasqua First Nation #79 and Apeiron."
About Pasqua First Nation #79
Pasqua First Nation #79 is a Treaty First Nation in Saskatchewan. PFN has established a wholly owned entity, Pasqua First Nation Group of Companies (PFNGC), through which it conducts various business investments and economic development activities. PFNGC's portfolio includes PRO Metal, a subsidiary focused on metal fabrication and manufacturing.
PFN is also actively involved in renewable energy development, including participation in the Seven Stars Energy Project, a 200-megawatt wind energy initiative being developed in partnership with Enbridge and five other Indigenous partners. The project, targeted to be operational in 2027, will produce emissions-free power for over 100,000 Saskatchewan homes and represents significant Indigenous ownership and participation in clean energy infrastructure.
About Apeiron Resources Ltd.
Apeiron Resources Ltd. is a Métis, First Nation, and Native American owned corporation and Certified Indigenous Business driven by a single purpose: to build stronger communities through sustainable socio-economic partnerships. Rooted in their Nations, they invest time, resources, and passion into volunteer leadership, community sponsorships, and capacity-building initiatives that empower citizens and honours cultural heritage.
Through Apeiron's family of companies, they secure federal and provincial grants, provide fuel solutions, corporate indigenous governance, deliver skills training, and forge trust-based relationships between industry and Indigenous Nations. By connecting non-Indigenous organizations with authentic inclusion opportunities, they help the energy sector and beyond engage meaningfully with First Nation, Métis, and Native American tribes.
Every project they undertake reflects cultural values, fosters economic empowerment, and delivers generational impact. Together with their partners, they create lasting change by bringing employment, training, and economic growth back to communities while guiding their partners in reconciliation to achieve more.
About Hillcrest Energy Technologies
Hillcrest Energy Technologies is a Canadian clean technology company focused on providing advanced power conversion technologies and digital control systems for next-generation powertrains and grid-connected renewable energy systems. From concept to commercialization, Hillcrest is investing in the development of energy solutions that will power a more sustainable and electrified future.
Hillcrest is publicly traded on the CSE under the symbol "HEAT," on the OTCQB Venture Market as "HLRTF," and on the Frankfurt Exchange as "7HI." For more information, please visit: https://hillcrestenergy.tech/.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Investor Relations
Don Currie
info@hillcrestenergy.tech
O: +1 604-609-0006
Toll-free: 1-855-609-0006
Public Relations
Jamie L. Hogue
jhogue@hillcrestenergy.tech
O: +1 602-793-9481
NEITHER THE CANADIAN SECURITIES EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER HAS REVIEWED OR ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.
FORWARD-LOOKING INFORMATION
Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information
Some of the statements contained in this news release are forward-looking statements and information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of words such as "expects," "intends," "is expected," "potential," "suggests" or variations of such words or phrases, or statements that certain actions, events or results "may," "could," "should," "would," "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. This forward-looking information is provided as of the date of this news release. The forward-looking information reflects our current expectations and assumptions and is subject to a number of known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, which may cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from any anticipated future results, performance or expectations expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. No assurance can be given that these assumptions will prove correct. Forward-looking statements and information are not historical facts and are subject to a number of risks and uncertainties beyond the Company's control. Investors are advised to consider the risk factors under the heading "Risks and Uncertainties" in the Company's MD&A for the year ended Dec. 31, 2024, available at https://www.sedarplus.ca/ for a discussion of the factors that could cause the Company's actual results, performance and achievements to be materially different from any anticipated future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law.
###
To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/288100
FAQ**
How does Hillcrest Energy Technologies Ltd. plan to leverage its partnership with CleanPath Distribution Inc. for the commercialization of its Zero Voltage Switching (ZVS) technology in the Vancouver area, and what specific funding opportunities are being pursued?
In what ways does CleanPath Distribution Inc.'s Indigenous-led structure, in collaboration with Pasqua First Nation #79 and Apeiron Resources Ltd., enhance access to government funding programs for projects targeted at Vancouver's clean energy sector?
What implications does Hillcrest's focus on the Canadian defense sector, as mentioned in their operational update, have for investment opportunities related to Vancouver's emerging clean technology and renewable energy markets, particularly for companies like Hillcrest Resources Ltd HLRTF?
How does the establishment of CleanPath Distribution Inc. and its focus on renewable energy align with Vancouver's current sustainability initiatives and investments, and what role will Hillcrest Energy Technologies play in contributing to this landscape?
**MWN-AI FAQ is based on asking OpenAI questions about Hillcrest Energy Technologies Ltd. (CNQC: HEAT:CC).
NASDAQ: HEAT:CC
HEAT:CC Trading
-3.85% G/L:
$0.125 Last:
178,559 Volume:
$0.13 Open:
