Energy Efficiency – The government announced the allocation of $ 1 million to support a Enerkem innovative project at its plant in Westbury

WESTBURY, QC , July 14. 2014 / CNW Telbec / – The member for Mégantic, Mr. Ghislain Bolduc , today announced on behalf of the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and Minister responsible for the Northern Plan, Pierre Arcand, the allocation of financial assistance of $ 1 million to Enerkem. for a demonstration project for renewable electricity production from waste biomass. The project, which is part of the Technoclimat program will be conducted in Enerkem plant in Westbury .

“I am particularly proud that such a technological innovation project takes shape in Westbury . Enerkem is a company whose mission is to produce biofuels and green chemicals from waste rather than oil. Green chemistry helps communities develop sustainable and contributes to the goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions that has set our government. The use of this technology for decentralized production of renewable electricity could represent a great potential for deployment, “said Mr. Bolduc.

Announced the grant will allow Enerkem to demonstrate, at its plant in Westbury , viability on an industrial scale production of electricity from waste biomass for decentralized power plants in remote areas. Renewable electricity would be produced among others from waste from communities and residual forest biomass.

“We are proud that the Government of Quebec to join as a partner in this innovative demonstration project for renewable electricity production from waste biomass and other waste,” said Vincent Chornet, President and Chief Executive Officer of Enerkem . “This project demonstrates the Enerkem will continue to innovate and develop new products based on its innovative technology platform. “

Enerkem may invest, in turn, to approximately $ 6 million in this demonstration project. The company wishes to validate the effectiveness of a system of renewable electricity production and at the same time, assess the potential for implementation of this technology in remote areas, particularly in Northern Quebec. These are diesel powered units that, 95% of the time will be replaced by such a system. In addition to a significant reduction in electricity costs, the installation of this system would allow a significant reduction in GHG emissions.

“We must work diligently to more efficient use of the energy available to protect Quebec’s energy future. Rest assured that our government will continue to assert its leadership in the implementation of energy efficiency measures and the development of emerging energy to reduce GHG emissions in Québec, “said Pierre Paradis, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food and Minister responsible for the Estrie region.

Natural Resources Canada also funds a part of this project through its ecoENERGY program on innovation.

Technoclimat
Technoclimat is a program that encourages the development of new technologies and innovative processes for energy efficiency, electric transportation and emerging energy and allow the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.A total budget of nearly $ 55 million is provided to support the program measures under the 2013-2020 Action Plan on Climate Change and enable the creation of 1,500 jobs.

“Our government is prioritizing the recovery of the economy and employment, including through increased energy efficiency efforts. Supporting such a project, we address the practical challenges posed by the dependence of oil and waste disposal, particularly in regions where fragile ecosystems requires sound management of waste, “said M . Arcand.