The study led by the British Columbia Innovation Council (BCIC) further investigates the commercial viability of refining biogas from organic waste
materials into biomethane - a renewable natural gas that can be sold in existing gas markets. A successful practice in Europe and the United States, biomethane production provides an opportunity for B.C. to develop and market a renewable energy alternative to natural gas at a price that competes with fossil fuels.
'Taking advantage of growing biofuel and bioenergy opportunities is a key focus of B.C.’s Agriculture Plan and Bioenergy Plan,' said Agriculture and Lands Minister Stan Hagen. 'The findings from this study are significant to the many agricultural producers in our province who can put their waste resources to use - benefiting the environment, the economy and all British Columbians.'
This study uncovers great potential in B.C. to use organic waste resources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and further British Columbia’s clean technology sector and low-carbon economy. Findings from an earlier study released in November 2007 revealed organic waste material found in the Fraser Valley could produce an estimated 120 million cubic meters of biomethane per year, an amount equivalent to the diesel consumed by 80,000 cars or 100 million litres.
Other BCIC projects underway include a study exploring the cultivation of microalgae to produce most of B.C.’s diesel needs (with findings to be released later this year). BCIC has also assembled two advisory groups composed of members from industry, government, and academia to develop programs that address the need for commercially viable energy alternatives.