Wedoany.com Report-Sept. 26, The Hamilton-Oshawa Port Authority (HOPA Ports) in Canada is taking significant steps to preserve and enhance biodiesel production at a key facility in Hamilton, previously operated by Biox. Located on port lands for over 20 years, the facility transforms used cooking oil, animal fats, and seed oils into biodiesel, with a production capacity of 67 million litres annually. It supports 33 direct and 134 indirect jobs, contributing to Ontario’s energy independence and agricultural sector.

On August 15, HOPA Ports finalized an agreement with the facility’s former owners, World Energy/Hartree, to secure critical plant assets, preventing equipment liquidation and enabling the facility to resume operations. HOPA is actively collaborating with industry partners to identify a new operator to sustain biodiesel production. This effort aligns with recent regulatory changes by the Ontario Ministry of Environment, Conservation and Parks, which amended provincial blending requirements to favor Canadian-produced biodiesel, enhancing the competitiveness of local producers.

“These collaborative efforts, combined with the Federal government’s recent announcement of production incentives, send a clear message of support for Canada’s renewable energy sector,” said Ian Hamilton, President and CEO of HOPA Ports. These actions aim to restore active production, support local jobs, provide diesel suppliers with a regional biodiesel source, and strengthen Ontario’s agricultural market by ensuring demand for local feedstock.

HOPA’s initiatives extend beyond Hamilton. In Port Colborne, Ontario, HOPA Ports, in partnership with Canada Clean Fuels and Canada Steamship Lines, is developing the Port Colborne Marine Biofuel Terminal. This 12-acre facility, valued at C$33 million with C$13.8 million in federal funding, will distribute up to 70 million litres of biodiesel annually, enough to fuel over 100 vessels yearly. The project supports the Great Lakes fleet’s transition to marine biofuels, aligning with Canada’s sustainable energy goals.

Additionally, Sterling Fuels’ Greener Future Project at the Port of Hamilton, supported by C$2 million from Transport Canada’s Green Shipping Corridors Program, involves a C$4 million investment to expand infrastructure. This includes adding two storage tanks and associated equipment to facilitate biofuel delivery. Both projects, backed by Transport Canada, contribute to establishing a green shipping corridor across the Great Lakes, promoting sustainable fuel use in maritime transport.

These initiatives underscore HOPA Ports’ commitment to advancing renewable energy, supporting local economies, and fostering sustainable practices in Ontario’s energy and shipping sectors.