The latest research from the Alberta Renewable Diesel Demonstration (ARDD) affirms the functionality of canola as a feedstock for renewable diesel in cold weather conditions, says JoAnne Buth, president of the Canola Council of Canada.
"The ARDD research makes it clear that canola biodiesel and canola-based blends are particularly well-suited to perform well in cold winter climates," says Buth. "These findings create further confidence that Canada can meet the biodiesel inclusion standards established by the federal government and two provincial governments, Alberta and BC."
The ARDD study, Canada’s largest cold-weather study of renewable diesel fuels, involved laboratory testing followed by actual on-road use of renewable diesel blends. In their announcement, the ARDD said the study used a 2% blend of canola-derived renewable diesel in winter months, and a 5% blend in the spring and summer comprised of 75% canola and 25% tallow. The blends performed without problems in cold temperatures.
The study findings come on the heels of federal and provincial biodiesel standard initiatives. Bill C-33 passed by Canadian Parliament will require a 2% inclusion of biodiesel in heating oil and diesel fuel by 2012. The new Alberta Renewable Fuel Standard requires 2% biodiesel fuel blends in the province by 2010. The B.C. government earlier this year announced a 5% biodiesel standard by 2010. Saskatchewan and Manitoba have also signaled support for provincial renewable fuel requirements but have yet to implement their own standards.
The Canola Council strongly supports a vibrant, canola-based biodiesel industry that involves "made in Canada" solutions to benefit canola growers and all Canadians.
"Biodiesel is providing a new market for canola, and it allows canola producers to participate in the full value chain," says Buth. "It’s good for producers, the environment and for all Canadians."
Direct supporters of the study were:
Advancing Canadian Agriculture and Agri-Food program of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
Biofuels Commercialization and Market Development Program, and Biofuels Infrastructure Development Program from Alberta Energy
Canadian Petroleum Products Institute
Canola Council of Canada
Shell Canada Ltd (in-kind and project partner)
There was also some additional support from Milligan BioTech, Neste Oil, Canadian Renewable Fuels Association (via BBI Biofuels Canada), and Alberta Biodiesel Association (via Canadian BioEnergy).
Visit http://www.canolabiodiesel.org/ for more facts about canola-based biodiesel.
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For further information, contact:
Debbie Belanger
Communications Manager
1-204-982-2111