SRC to test biodiesel’s performance in agriculture equipment

December 17, 2009

Regina, SK — The Saskatchewan Research Council (SRC) is leading a biodiesel pilot project to demonstrate how well the renewable fuel performs year-round in agriculture equipment. Supported by Natural Resources Canada the project will help SRC assess biodiesel’s quality retention and performance in farming equipment and bulk storage facilities in all seasons, including the coldest winter months.

“The Government of Canada, is pleased to partner with the Saskatchewan Research Council to promote the use of renewable diesel,” said Tom Lukiwski, Member of Parliament for Regina–Lumsden–Lake Centre, on behalf of the Honourable Lisa Raitt, Minister of Natural Resources. “Our investment of $782,000 for this demonstration project will contribute to reducing Canada’s total greenhouse gas emissions while investing in made-in-Canada technology and stimulating the economy.” 

During the year-long project, eight agriculture producers will operate their equipment using low-level (B5) and high-level (B10) canola–biodiesel blends to determine whether they affect engine performance. Five producers will operate year-round on a B5 blend, while three others will use a B10 blend during warmer months and a B5 blend the rest of the year.

As part of the study, SRC will evaluate approximately 50 tractors, combines, swathers and related farm fuel storage tanks. Biodiesel quality will be closely monitored and evaluated to ensure that the fuel maintains adequate quality throughout the year-round farming cycle. Fuel testing will be conducted at the SRC Biofuels Test Centre™ in Regina.

“We’re privileged to lead a biodiesel study that will benefit farmers in Saskatchewan and across Canada,” said Dr. Laurier Schramm, SRC president and CEO. “This study and our proven expertise in biofuels testing will provide practical insights to both agriculture producers and the Government of Canada as they explore biodiesel use on the farm.” 

When the study is completed in November 2010, producers and other agriculture industry stakeholders will have information that will assist them in successfully blending, handling and storing biodiesel blends in cold Canadian conditions.

In particular, program results from the study will be shared and will assist in moving forward the Government of Canada’s proposed renewable fuels regulation that would require an average of two percent renewable fuel in diesel fuel by 2011 or earlier, subject to technical feasibility.