WINNIPEG, Man. — Manitoba is taking the next step in building its green fuel sector by establishing fuel quality standards for the production of biodiesel, according to Science, Technology, Energy and Mines Minister Jim Rondeau.

“We are excited about the potential the biofuels industry holds for Manitoba,” said Rondeau in a recent statement. “Biodiesel joins hydroelectric power, geothermal, wind, ethanol, solar and biomass, as one of the pillars of our clean-energy strategy. It is a proven energy source that will help us find solutions to climate change in order to meet our Kyoto commitments.”

Rondeau said the standards, established as part of the Manitoba Biofuels Act, are needed as the province moves forward with plans to establish a biodiesel mandate.

The regulation that will go into effect Dec. 15 establishes requirements for: obtaining a licence to manufacture biodiesel; reporting and keeping records by licence holders; fuel-quality standards for biodiesel, and blends of biodiesel and petroleum diesel fuel; and penalties for failing to comply with a biodiesel licence.

Under the Biodiesel (General) Regulation, manufacturers intending to sell biodiesel in Manitoba or produce 15,000 litres or more of biodiesel annually, will be required to have a commercial licence. Small-scale manufacturers producing less than 15,000 litres a year for its own use, will be required to apply for a non-commercial manufacturing licence.

Standards are already in place for the production of ethanol in Manitoba.