First facility in world to convert non-recyclable, non-compostable municipal solid waste into liquid biofuels and chemicals
Enerkem Alberta Biofuels, a subsidiary of Montreal-based Enerkem Inc., is receiving $3.5 million from the Government of Canada through the Western Innovation (WINN) Initiative to build the final phase of a facility that converts non-recyclable, non-compostable municipal solid waste into liquid biofuels and chemicals, according to a press release.
Amarjeet Sohi, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, on behalf of Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister responsible for Western Economic Diversification Canada, made the announcement today at the Edmonton Waste Management Centre.
The Enerkem Alberta Biofuels facility is the first of its kind to convert non-recyclable, non-compostable municipal solid waste into liquid biofuels and chemicals.
“This facility is truly an example of the strength of Canadian innovation – solving the problems of today and proving that protecting the environment and growing the economy go hand in hand,” said Amajeet Sohi.
“Enerkem Alberta Biofuels’ operation will have tangible benefits for the City of Edmonton and help Canada build its reputation as a responsible steward of the environment. I am excited to see this made-in-Canada technology come to life.”
It contributes to the City of Edmonton’s goal to divert up to 90 per cent of household waste from the landfill.
This commercial-scale facility has the capacity to process 100,000 metric tons of solid waste annually, which includes items like textiles, non-recyclable plastics, or soiled food containers, to produce over 40 million litres of fuel-grade, cellulosic ethanol.
“The support from Western Innovation (WINN) Initiative has allowed Enerkem to complete earlier this year the installation of a methanol-to-ethanol conversion unit at our world-class waste-to-biofuel facility, a major cornerstone in helping decarbonize the planet and in setting a new standard in waste management and sustainable biofuels,” said Vincent Chornet, CEO of Enerkem Inc..
A focus on clean technology, innovation and growth is a core element of the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change. The Western Innovation (WINN) Initiative complements the Framework and helps Canada foster globally competitive businesses that support the transition to a low-carbon economy.
