Canada Sets First with Commercial Biofuel Plant

Ground has been broken at a site in Canada where a world-first will take place in terms of alternative fuel production.

According to those set to build the facility, it’s here that waste-derived biofuel is set to be produced on an industrial/commercial scale for the first time.

Quebec-based firm Enerkem is now constructing the facility: a project involving it, the Alberta Government and the City of Edmonton. The site will produce up to 36 million litres of biofuel from municipal waste a year: sufficient to power over 400,000 motor vehicles.

“This groundbreaking marks the launch of a transformative project and leads the first wave of commercial-scale advanced biofuels plants in North America”, CEO and President of Enerkem's, Vincent Chornet, stated at the launch ceremony held at the start of September 2010.

He added: “This plant is the genesis of a world transformation where our non-recyclable garbage will power the vehicles we drive and reduce carbon emissions.”

Edmonton Biofuel Plant: Canada

A 25-year contract has been signed by Enerkem subsidiary Enerkem Alberta Biofuels LP and the City of Edmonton and, through this, the Edmonton biofuel plant will process more than 100,000 of waste.

Once the biofuel starts being produced in winter 2011, Canada’s overall CO2 emissions output will eventually drop by six million tons.

“Alberta is an energy province”, Premier Ed Stelmach added. “This project is another example of how our government is helping develop leading-edge renewable and non-renewable energy technology.

“I applaud the vision and dedication the partners have shown to make this pioneering project a reality.”

Canadian Biofuel

In related news, at the start of September, the Canadian government set out new biofuel rules stating that renewable fuel should represent five per cent of standard vehicle fuel.

“This is a milestone day for renewable fuels in Canada”, Canadian Renewable Fuels Association President, Gordon Quaiatinni, commented.

“These regulations will help deliver new jobs, new rural growth and considerable greenhouse gas reductions.”

See also -

News:

80% Emissions Reductions by Turning Waste into Fuel

Products and Services:

Companies Supplying Waste Management

Companies supplying Renewable Energy