Canadian indigenous-led $151.8M biorefinery set for 2028 commissioning

In Canada, Wanagekong-Biiwega’iganan Clean Energy Corporation (WBCEC) is leveraging a unique Indigenous-led and industry-supported consortium to develop cutting-edge biomass-to-renewable fuels facilities across Northern Ontario. The ten communities who jointly own 80% of WBCEC include the First Nations of Big Grassy, Couchiching, Gakijiwanong, Mitaanjigamiing, Naicatchewenin, Naongashiing, Nigigoonsiminikaaning, Onigaming, Rainy River, and Seine River.

The remaining 20% of WBCEC is owned by Highbury Renewables (Highbury Energy Inc.) a Canadian Private Corp. Highbury provides innovative renewable energy technology that can competitively produce net-zero carbon intensity fuels.The Highbury technology platform, proven and tested over many years at the University of British Columbia, produces synthesis gas from non-merchantable woody biomass. Highbury’s advanced dual bed steam gasifier, through a licence with Emerging Fuels Technology (EFT), employs Fisher Tropsch technology to produce Renewable Diesel, Naphtha (RDN) and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF).

WBCEC will invest C$210 million to construct a first-of-its-kind SAF & RDN production facility in Fort Frances, Ontario. The project will create 84 direct and indirect jobs while adding support to existing forestry manufacturing jobs in Canada.

A recently completed FEED Study validated the technology and going-forward business model. As WBCEC transitions to the final design and engineering phase, biomass fiber allocation agreements are being finalized, and product offtake arrangements are in the advanced discussion stage. The biorefinery is expected to be commissioned early 2028.