Getting the real story out
Priorities:
- Demonstrate the potential of bioenergy as a strategic energy
resource, and unique socioeconomic benefit at the community
level.
- Present accurate and complete information on bioenergy
- Encourage favourable bioenergy-specific policies, mandates, and
incentives
- Advocate the removal of legislative and regulatory barriers
- Promote easy access to bioenergy feedstock on public lands
B.C. certification change - There have been a number of highlights in the past year including the adoption by the province of British Columbia of modified boiler certification standards that will make biomass an attractive fuel source for many installations. We continue to work towards the same changes in the other provinces.
National survey - Earlier this year, CanBio undertook a nationwide survey of bioenergy installations to assess the socio-economic impact of bioenergy in Canada. It is by far the most comprehensive study ever undertaken on the economic impacts of bioenergy in Canada. The data collected is important to understand the unique contribution the industry can provide to the welfare of Canada, and provides a good factual basis for making policy decisions at the federal and regional levels. The preliminary results have been published; the full report is expected later this fall.
Ontario legislation - We have been following legislation in Ontario carefully. Ontario's Green Energy Act, which was passed in 2009, includes bioenergy as part of the solution, however, enabling financial support legislation only provides financing support for wind and solar power. We are actively working towards changes.