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B.C. releases biomass guide

As part of National Forest Week, the Government of British Columbia released an updated information guide today to help stakeholders and investors develop bioenergy projects in the province using wood waste and other biomass resources.

“The BC Biomass Guide provides all of the necessary tools for those interested in developing biomass projects,” said Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification. “By investing in this guide, our government is encouraging green technology solutions, allowing us to be more energy-efficient and creating new economic opportunities.”

“One of my key priorities is to improve utilization by turning what was previously considered waste and debris into bioenergy,” said Minister of Forests and Range Pat Bell. “The BC Biomass Guide is an excellent primer for First Nations, small communities, municipalities, and industry interested in pursuing bioenergy opportunities.”

“Bioenergy production will help us meet our future energy demands, as well as encourage economic growth and job creation in rural communities,” said Minister of Energy, Mines and Petroleum Resources Bill Bennett. “This guide supports our energy objectives by assisting new projects that convert wood waste into clean energy.”

In addition to bioenergy stakeholders in British Columbia, the provincial government says the information provided in the BC Biomass Guide is of interest to potential investors and partners outside the province.

The government says the guide covers a wide range of biomass topics, including technologies, markets, financing, consultation and partnerships with First Nations, energy sales, and ownership models. Initially published in 2007, it has been updated to reflect recently launched projects, new policy directions, funding program changes, and advancements in technologies and applications.

Funding to update the guide was provided by the BC Bioenergy Network and Western Economic Diversification Canada, as well as the Northern Rural and Remote Communities Green Heat Initiative and the Resources North Association.

“The BC Bioenergy Network is pleased to support this initiative to ensure the rapid advancements that have taken place the last few years in the BC bioenergy sector are reflected in this comprehensive guide,” said Michael Weedon, Executive Director of BC Bioenergy Network.

The government says the guide directly supports the BC Bioenergy Strategy and its goal to build bioenergy partnerships that will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions, strengthen BC’s long-term competitiveness and achieve electricity self-sufficiency for the province.

The BC Biomass Guide is available online at www.for.gov.bc.ca/pab/nfw/bioenergy-guide-2010.pdf.

September 22, 2010  By  John Gilson