Demand for Renewable Diesel Expected to Soar Over Next Five Years

Canadian canola production is forecast to jump as new crushing facilities come online to meet expectations of soaring demand for renewable diesel over the next five years. Unlike biodiesel, renewable diesel is a biomass-based fuel that is identical to fossil diesel, and can be used in its place - even in cold weather. And depending on the feedstock and production method can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 80 percent or more.

The Canadian Oilseed Processors Association calls the coming boom “great news” for the country’s canola growers, which could see an increase in crush capacity of 50 percent, or nearly 6 million tons, come online based on facilities that are currently in development or have been announced.

Chris Vervaet, executive director of the association, went on to state that while currently low, Canada’s production of renewable diesel will reach 1 billion liters by 2024, 2 billion by 2025, and almost 4.5 billion by 2027.

A similar boom is occurring in the U.S. where two years ago renewable diesel production capacity was 2.5 billion liters. Today it has roughly tripled to hit 7.6 billion liters. And though suitable feedstocks include vegetable oils, including soyoil, or animal fats, Vervaet predicts that canola production in North America could increase by 50 percent or more to meet demand.

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