Alberta

The Government of Alberta is requiring renewable content in commercial fuels through its Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS). Starting April 1, 2011, the RFS will require an average of 2% renewable diesel in diesel fuel and 5% renewable alcohol in gasoline sold in Alberta.

Who is subject to the regulation?

The RFS places an obligation on fuel producers and importers to have an annual average 2% renewable diesel content, by volume, in diesel they sell for use in Alberta. The fuel supplier must report to the Alberta government on an annual basis with documentation of its delivery of qualifying renewable diesel onto the Alberta market. The Regulation places an obligation on fuel producers and importers to provide an annual average 5% renewable alcohol in gasoline sold in Alberta.

What quality standard does blended diesel and gasoline need to meet?

Qualifying renewable fuels must meet ASTM and CGSB fuel quality standards.

What other requirements do fuels with renewable content have to meet under the regulation?

The Regulation also requires fuel suppliers to have a qualified third party ensure the renewable fuel emits at least 25% less greenhouse gases than the equivalent petroleum fuel. The procedures are outlined in the Renewable Fuels Greenhouse Gas Emissions Eligibility Standard. The Alberta regulation has additional requirements to address direct land use concerns for sugarcane and palm as well as the renewable component of municipal solid waste.

Where will the fuels with renewable content be sold?

The Regulation applies across Alberta but does not require renewable fuel to be supplied in any particular region. Fuel suppliers have the flexibility to vary their blend percentages and can choose where they supply renewable fuel blends, provided they meet the provincial annual average requirement for renewable fuel content.

How will the Regulation affect consumers?

Fuel with renewable content will be subject to market pricing, just like fuel without renewable content. Renewable fuels are also taxed like petroleum fuels. Any additional cost of renewable content is not likely to be noticeable in the daily price fluctuations experienced in both gasoline and diesel markets. (Source, www.energy.gov.ab.ca)

For more information, see: Alberta RFS Regulation and supporting information.