Jim Hillyer, MP for Lethbridge, on behalf of the Honourable Joe Oliver, Minister of Natural Resources, announced an investment of up to $31.14 million, over six years, in Kyoto Fuels Corporation through the ecoENERGY for Biofuels program.

“Our Government is working to advance clean energy solutions and reduce greenhouse gas emissions through our ecoENERGY for Biofuels program,” said MP Hillyer. “By investing in projects like this, we are helping to sustain local jobs and create economic opportunities while maintaining a healthier environment for all Canadians.”

Kyoto Fuels Corporation, located in Lethbridge, Alberta, will produce up to 66 million litres of biodiesel a year. The project consists of converting vegetable or cooking oil or animal fat into biodiesel. The company intends to sell the product to diesel producers in Western Canada and the northwestern United States. The reduction of greenhouse gas emissions from biodiesel can be as much as 80 percent over regular diesel.

 “Kyoto Fuels looks forward to providing quality renewable fuels through the ecoENERGY for Biofuels program, which represents a vital aspect of our ability to participate in this evolving sector of Canada’s economy,” said Kelsey Prenevost, President and Chief Executive Officer, Kyoto Fuels Corporation. “In addition to employing 20 well-qualified technicians, other industries such as transportation and distribution will benefit from our production.”

The Government of Canada is investing up to $1.5 billion through the ecoENERGY for Biofuels program over nine years and recognizes that the increased use of biofuels contributes to reducing Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions as well as creating clean energy jobs for today and in the future.

Regulations now require a five percent renewable fuel content based on the national gasoline pool and a two percent requirement for renewable content in diesel fuel and heating oil.