July 2, 2015
Province Continues to Support Transition From Coal to Biomass With Funding Program
The Manitoba government is currently accepting applications for the Biomass Energy Support Program, which offers $500,000 in grants to help coal users make the transition to renewable biomass fuel and another $500,000 for applied research projects that support the growth of the biomass industry, Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced today.
“Manitoba continues to invest in our green economy, in local producers and new opportunities,” said Minister Kostyshyn. “This program helps support Manitobans who are making the necessary changes to benefit the environment and support our biofuels sector. We also recognize there is more research and development work needed to build capacity and create even more opportunity.”
Coal users who apply for grant funding can receive up to 50 per cent of the cost of converting heating systems to biomass. Current biomass manufacturers can also apply to help expand their operations to meet consumer demands. The maximum grant available is $50,000. Eligible biomass fuels include:
- agricultural residue such as wheat and flax straw, sunflower hulls or compacted biomass-like wheat and oat pellets;
- forestry residues such as wood chips or salvaged timber; and
- biomass crops such as switch grass, willow and poplar.
Last year, this program was expanded to fund applied research projects that address gaps or identify opportunities for business and technology development in the biomass sector, the minister said. Nine projects focused on expanding the use of biomass in a wide variety of applications received funding. Projects with short turn-around times that support Manitoba’s coal reduction strategy are given priority in the funding approval process, the minister noted.
Since the program started in 2012, the Manitoba government has provided more than $2.1 million to 60 projects. These projects have reduced the amount of coal used by more than 10,000 tonnes and greenhouse-gas emissions by more than 15,000 tonnes annually, Minister Kostyshyn said.
Manitoba has committed to use coal and petroleum coke (petcoke) tax revenues to help coal users convert to biomass. These grants also support the goals of Manitoba’s bio-products strategy, which includes encouraging the development of value-added processing in rural and northern Manitoba’s agriculture and forestry sectors.
Applications for research and capital upgrade grants through the Biomass Energy Support Program will be accepted until Sept. 30.
For more information about the program and how to apply, visit: www.manitoba.ca/agriculture/innovation-and-research/biomass-energy-support-program.html
For more information on Manitoba’s agricultural programs and services, follow the Twitter account at www.twitter.com/MBGovAg.
- 30 -