The Canadian government is putting more than $72 million into a biodiesel plant in Ontario.
This government press release says the money for the BIOX Corporation facility in Hamilton comes from the ecoENERGY for Biofuels program, which works to help stabilize the Canadian renewable fuel industry:
“The Government of Canada is delivering results for families and workers in Hamilton,” said [The Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Natural Resources]. “By investing in this project, our government is helping to create and sustain local jobs and economic opportunities as well as a healthier environment for all Canadians.”
Through the ecoENERGY for Biofuels program, the Government of Canada will invest up to $1.5 billion over nine years to encourage the development of a strong, competitive renewable fuels industry in Canada. Compared with gasoline, grain-based ethanol can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 40 percent on a life-cycle basis. For biodiesel, the emissions reduction can be as much as 60 percent.
“This announcement today is ensuring new, green, sustainable manufacturing jobs are being created right here at home,” said [Tim Haig, President and CEO of BIOX Canada Ltd.]. “Clean-burning renewable fuels such as biodiesel significantly reduce harmful greenhouse gas emissions and finally give drivers a choice at the fuel pump. BIOX is proud to be a world-leader in advanced biodiesel production, and proud to help Canada grow beyond oil.”
The news was also welcomed by the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association (CRFA):
“BIOX is using a new advanced technology at their facility in Hamilton to make a world-class renewable fuel,” said CRFA President Gordon Quaiattini. “Biodiesel significantly reduces greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, as well as reducing many other harmful air pollutants. This is on top of bringing about diversity at the fuel pump for all drivers and consumers.”
BIOX is the largest producer of biodiesel in Canada.