Enerkem appoints Michel Chornet as new CEO

Enerkem, a leading technology provider specialising in low-carbon fuels and chemicals production from waste based in Montreal, Canada, has announced the appointment of Michel Chornet as its new chief executive officer (CEO) effective immediately. Chornet succeeds Dominique Boies, who has been instrumental in steering the company through significant milestones over the past seven years.

Under Boies’ leadership, Enerkem launched its first-of-a-kind commercial project, Varennes Carbon Recycling, currently under construction in Quebec. The company has advanced multiple major projects and secured strategic financial partnerships, significantly contributing to its growth and development.

Reflecting on Boies’ contributions, Chornet expressed immense gratitude for his predecessor’s leadership and dedication. “Dominique has laid a robust foundation for Enerkem’s future success, and I am honored to build upon the foundation,” Chornet said.

Before this appointment, Chornet led Enerkem’s global commercialisation strategy, as well as the ongoing development of its technology and research and development. His family founded Enerkem in 2000, with co-founders Esteban Chornet (his father) and Vincent Chornet (his late brother). Enerkem has commercialised groundbreaking gasification technology that transforms non-recyclable waste into biofuels, low-carbon fuels, and circular chemicals. The company’s solutions address waste management challenges and reduce dependency on fossil fuel products, contributing to a sustainable, net-zero-carbon future.

Chornet has been with Enerkem for more than 17 years in various positions. He headed the Enerkem Alberta Biofuels site, overseeing the construction, operational readiness, launch and operation of Enerkem’s first full-scale commercial facility. Prior to this, he held several management roles with increasing responsibility in both small and large enterprises in the energy, chemical and renewable sectors with Shell Canada and H-Power Canada. In 2007, he cofounded Fractal Systems where he held the position of vice president, Engineering and Technology, overseeing the development and commercialisation of novel upgrading processes. Also in 2007, he cofounded CRB Innovations, a technology start-up in the clean-tech space.

Chornet holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemical Engineering and an MBA from McGill University in Montréal.

Looking ahead, Chornet emphasised Enerkem’s commitment to accelerating commercialisation efforts to help decarbonise hard-to-abate sectors globally. He highlighted the company’s innovative technologies, including low-carbon biomethanol for the maritime industry and second-generation sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). “I am very proud to lead the organization and our exceptional pool of talents as we embark on this new chapter,” he said.