Greentech Lead America: Enerkem, a waste to biofuel and renewable chemicals company, has launched a new research project with the Government of Canada.
The objective of the project is to develop new catalytic processes for the conversion of waste into “drop-in” biofuels. These “drop-in” biofuels are fully interchangeable with hydrocarbon fuels, such as conventional gasoline, diesel and jet fuel.
Enerkem’s technology produces a chemical-grade synthesis gas that serves as a key intermediate for the production of renewable fuels and chemicals. This R&D project will be conducted at Enerkem’s research and development pilot facility in Sherbrooke, Quebec, in collaboration with the University of Sherbrooke.
The Government of Canada is contributing $1.1 million to this project via Natural Resources Canada:
“Through the ecoENERGY Innovation Initiative, our Government is investing in innovative clean energy technologies that create jobs, generate new economic opportunities and protect the environment,” said the Honourable Joe Oliver, Canada’s Minister of Natural Resources. “This program demonstrates our tangible support for energy projects that drive energy innovation.”
Enerkem’s core business is the commercial production of cellulosic ethanol. The company now plans to expand their line of biofuels and chemical products using their flexible technology platform, said Vincent Chornet, president and CEO of Enerkem. “This research project is part of our growth strategy and demonstrates our commitment towards innovation and a greener economy.”
Global biofuel production to touch 61.6 billion gallons per year in 2023
According to Navigant Research, worldwide biofuels production will grow from 33.6 billion gallons per year (BGY) in 2013 to 61.6 BGY in 2023.
North America is leading the transition to advanced biofuels, but healthy growth in Europe, Asia Pacific, and Latin America is helping to diversify the fuel supply for a range of transportation applications, the report said.