More than $4 million has been approved for Canadian Bioenergy Corporation biodiesel plant in Fort Saskatchewan. This plant will be one of the largest biodiesel plants to be constructed in Western Canada and will provide feedstock opportunities for rural Alberta and the agricultural industry.

“Opportunities to involve communities throughout Alberta in bio-energy projects show that Albertans, as well as businesses, are aware of the benefits of bio-energy,” said Mel Knight, Minister of Energy. “These grants will increase investment and help offset some of the start-up costs companies may face.”
The funding was allocated through the Bio-refining Commercialization and Market Development Program and the Bio-energy Infrastructure Development Program. Both grant programs are part of the Alberta government’s $239 million Nine-Point Bio-energy Plan designed to encourage the growth of a clean, renewable fuel industry in Alberta.

Canadian Bioenergy Corporation will use the funding to develop biodiesel production capacity for transportation and industrial use, as well as a number of co-product opportunities. Biodiesel is a bio-fuel made by converting renewable feedstocks like vegetable oil and animal fats through chemical conversion.

During the second round of funding, 24 companies will receive grants to support product development, market research, and feasibility studies to assist bio-refiners in adopting new technologies and meeting market requirements.

More information on Alberta’s bio-energy industry and the grant programs is available on the Alberta Energy website at www.energy.gov.ab.ca under the Our Business section.

The bio-energy grant programs and the development of renewable energy support Premier Ed Stelmach’s plan to build a stronger Alberta. Other government priorities are to govern with integrity and transparency, manage growth pressures, improve Albertans’ quality of life and promote safe and secure communities.

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