The cellulosic ethanol production plant. Source: CNW Group/Enerkem Inc.

Cellulosic ethanol is now being produced in the world’s first commercial-scale plant to derive this biofuel from non-recyclable, non-compostable mixed municipal solid waste. The Edmonton, Alberta, Canada, facility operated by Enerkem Inc. (Montreal, Quebec, Canada) uses a proprietary process that converts the waste into a pure synthesis gas, which is then converted into biofuels and other widely used chemicals using catalysts.

The four-step thermochemical process entails feedstock preparation, gasification, cleaning and conditioning of syngas and catalytic synthesis. The technology provides a clean transportation fuel while offering a sustainable alternative to traditional waste landfilling and incineration.

The global market for advanced biofuels is expected to reach 124 billion liters (32.8 billion gallons) per year by 2030, according to the International Renewable Energy Agency. The company plans to increase production in Edmonton while preparing to build similar facilities locally and around the world.

Enerkem has been producing and selling biomethanol since 2016, prior to expanding production to include cellulosic ethanol with the installation of its methanol-to-ethanol conversion unit earlier this year.