Grant: Alliance Grants

The proposed project addresses the need for sustainable and renewable energy solutions by producing advanced biofuel using lignocellulosic biomass, such as forestry residues. The project will be conducted in collaboration with Gazifère, a natural gas supplier, as it aligns with their aim of reducing carbon emissions and promoting renewable energy alternatives. This project will develop the methodology to convert forestry residues into drop-in biofuels using lipid-accumulating yeast. The main advantage of drop-in biofuel is that it can be added directly to existing vehicle engines and does not require blending. The proposed objectives include optimization of biofuel productivity, scale-up model, life cycle impact assessment and cost-benefit analysis. The proposed project will not only provide the necessary model to produce biofuel at a pilot scale but will also aid in assessing the possible impacts of the process on the environment. In addition to supporting the initiative of Gazifère to replace fossil fuels, the expected outcome will also position Canada as a global green leader in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, decreasing reliance on importing biofuels and fostering a green economy. In addition, two HQPs (a Postdoctoral fellow and a Master's student) will be trained during the implementation of this project. The proposal will help the post-doctoral fellow gain project management and advanced research-related skills, while the MSc student will develop fundamental research and technical skills, thus helping them steer their careers in academic or industrial sectors.