Ontario Invests More Than CA$3.6 Million in Biomass Projects

Ontario has announced more than CA$3.6 million (US$2.56 million) in funding for forest biomass projects across Northern Ontario, supporting expanded use of bark, wood chips, and other forest byproducts for bioenergy and value-added products, Northern Ontario Business reported (9-21-26).

On September 17, Ontario Associate Forestry Minister Kevin Holland announced more than $2.5 million for Thunder Bay Pulp and Paper to upgrade its boilers and chemical plant. The province said the improvements will increase daily kraft production by 11% and create a market for more than 130,000 tons of forest biomass annually.

The new equipment is also expected to reduce the company’s use of bleaching chemicals by 30% and cut annual natural gas consumption by more than 5 million m³.

Other funding announced for biomass-related projects in northwestern Ontario included:

• AUX Energy: $92,500 to develop plans for a biomass-powered generator project intended to increase energy security in Fort Frances.
• Weyerhaeuser: $32,650 to study production-line upgrades aimed at reducing costs and improving efficiency and product quality.

On September 18, Holland announced $1.1 million for five Indigenous-led projects while visiting Lake Nipigon Forest Management Inc.’s Biohub site in Hurkett, northeast of Thunder Bay. The developing wood-processing and biomass-storage facility is operated by a forestry cooperative representing four First Nation communities and previously received a $250,000 provincial investment.

The latest Indigenous-led project funding included:

• Constance Lake First Nation: $250,000 to develop plans for an adaptable energy system that converts forest biomass into biofuel.
• Apitipi Anicinapek Nation: $250,000 to investigate forestry opportunities and support workforce development through skills assessments and training workshops.
• Webequie First Nation: $250,000 for planning and capacity-building to support development of a community-operated 25 MW electricity facility powered by forest biomass.
• Wanagekong Biiwega’iganan Clean Energy Corporation: $250,000 to study biomass supply, complete permitting, and build partnerships for a planned biorefinery.
• Kasabonika Lake First Nation: $158,750 to plan a sustainable wood-energy and sawmill program intended to reduce reliance on diesel fuel and improve energy security.