Saskatchewan introduces biodiesel mandate

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REGINA, Sask. — Saskatchewan has introduced a Renewable Diesel Act, which will require diesel fuel sold in the province to contain 2% renewable content beginning July 1, 2012.

“This is an excellent start in developing the renewable diesel industry in Saskatchewan,” Enterprise Minister Jeremy Harrison announced yesterday. “It is good for the economy, good for our environment and good for Saskatchewan canola producers. This began as a recommendation from Enterprise Saskatchewan’s Board of Directors and sector team. Enterprise Saskatchewan will be meeting with stakeholders to continue consultations on related issues, as well as to finalize regulations in the coming months.”

The legislation was naturally lauded by the renewable fuels industry.

“Biodiesel is a better way to drive and an innovative way to fuel our economy,” Renewable Fuels Association president Gordon Quaiattini said. “The Renewable Diesel Act will help moderate price by adding to our fuel supply, create new jobs and benefit farmers and drivers alike.”

Renewable diesel producers will benefit from $26 million in funding over the next five years as part of the legislation.

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  • What is happening with the communication between this Saskatchewan Enterprise minister and his provinces energy minister? If he had bothered to check with him first, he would have found that the Canadian federal government already has already passed legislation for the same 2 percent bio content for diesel. It was supposed to start January 1, 2011, but was delayed a few months until June or July of 2011 until final test results were completed for different weather testing.
    With Peter Kent MP just appointed Canada’s new Environment Minister in January this year, he will be mentioning this again during his runup to the May 2, election date.
    If the province wants to be bold, they should require at least a 5 percent minimum bio content for the diesel.
    As another reminder, federal legislation allows a 20 cent per liter tax rebate to the end user for any bio portion in diesel fuels. PM Harper made sure that got passed a couple of years ago. Where are the mainstream media on this, why are they not mentioning this?

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