BY CATHERINE BROWNLEE, PRESIDENT OF ALBERTA ENTERPRISE GROUP (AEG), CALGARY AND EDMONTON CHAPTERS

Rainforest Energy, an AEG member, is a Calgary-based biofuels company whose mission, Empowering Humanity through Clean Energy Innovation, reflects their dedication to pioneering sustainable fuel solutions in Alberta. 

Biofuels, derived from biomass, are crucial in the transition towards renewable energy. The industry encompasses various types of projects, each targeting different feedstock and processes. 

Alberta is a hub for innovative energy solutions with several biofuels projects emerging. These range from large-scale biodiesel production facilities using canola oil to smaller, community-based projects leveraging agricultural and forestry waste. Alberta’s commitment to renewable energy is evident in its diverse portfolio of biofuels ventures. 

The process of converting biomass into biofuels involves several steps: 
• Biomass Collection: Biomass, which includes agricultural waste, forest residues, and other organic matter, is gathered. 

• Pre-Treatment: This might include drying, grinding or other processes to enhance its suitability for biofuel production. 

• Conversion: The biomass is then converted into biofuels through various methods. 

• Refinement: The resulting biofuels are then purified and refined to meet the required standards for use in vehicles or other applications. 

 • Distribution and Use: Finally, the biofuels are distributed for use in transportation, power generation, or other applications. Most often distribution of biofuels uses existing infrastructure. 

Statistically, the biofuels sector is a key player in the renewable energy landscape. According to the IEA, biofuels helped avoid consumption of 2 million barrels of oil equivalent per day (mboe/d) in 2022, which accounts for 4 per cent of the global transport sector oil demand. 

The Canadian Clean Fuel Standard is aiming for a substantial reduction in GHG emissions from fuels by mandating a 14g CO2e/MJ reduction from fossil fuels by 2030. To put this in perspective, current emission levels from diesel are 100g CO2e/MJ, gasoline at 92g CO2e/MJ and propane at 75g CO2e/MJ. In contrast, renewable diesel drastically lowers emissions to 35g CO2e/MJ, and renewable natural gas (RNG) goes even further, reducing emissions to a mere 5g CO2e/MJ. 

At Rainforest, their process allows for the production of high-octane gasoline with a carbon intensity score as low as negative 54g CO2e/MJ. These figures underscore the potential for biofuels to play a pivotal role in Canada’s transition to a low-carbon economy and meeting its climate and clean fuels standards goals. 

With significant GHG reductions and a growing presence in the renewable energy sector, biofuels are pivotal in driving Alberta towards a greener, cleaner future, proving that a commitment to clean energy not only benefits the environment but also provides economic benefits.