Production of Biofuels
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Canada’s biofuel industry is growing quickly, and Alberta is leading the way.
Bio-based Diesel Production in Alberta
Alberta is stepping up as a leader in bio-based diesel.
Alberta produces about half of Canada’s bio-based diesel capacity.
By late 2025, the province will reach about 1.5 billion litres per year of renewable diesel and biodiesel capacity, the largest in the country
Major facilities:
- Imperial Oil Strathcona – Renewable diesel = 1.16 billion litres per year
- ADM Lloydminster – Biodiesel = 322 million litres per year
This growth creates a stronger, more stable demand for canola and keeps more value in farmers’ pockets.
ℹ️ Definitions
Renewable diesel is a low-emission fuel made from renewable feedstocks such as canola oil and fats that works like regular diesel in existing engines.
Biodiesel is a renewable fuel made from vegetable oils or recycled fats, commonly blended with diesel to reduce emissions.
Canadian Biodiesel Facilities
Canada is building biofuel capacity from coast to coast, creating new demand for crops like canola and strengthening domestic markets.
Mouse over the round markers to see the facility/company, biofuel type and maximum capacity.
- Cellulosic Ethanol (Pilot/Demo)
- Bio-methanol / Advanced Fuels
- Renewable Diesel
- Ethanol
- Biodiesel
- Advanced Biofuels / SAF Demonstration
Co-processed Fuels
Co-processing is the method of incorporating bio-based feedstocks like canola oil with fossil crude oil ahead of the refining processing stage. This enables existing petroleum refineries to produce renewable fuels from bio-based feedstock, utilizing existing refining facilities. This reduces the investment requirements for traditional refineries and at the same time helps to meet renewable content obligations and reduce green-house gas emissions.
Imperial Oil is slated to begin co-processing in its Strathcona facility. This will expand its renewable fuel production to 1.16 billion litres per year and will approximately process an additional 500 thousand metric tonnes of canola seed equivalent to a total 3 million metric tonnes overall.
ACT NOW!
Help Shape Canada’s Biofuel Future!
Government decisions are being made now. Take action by sending a letter to your MP and MLA and supporting policies that grow Canada’s biofuel industry.