Hamilton Oshawa Port Authority (HOPA Ports) has welcomed the announcement of two transformative initiatives supported by Transport Canada’s Green Shipping Corridors Fund. These projects mark a significant step toward advancing sustainable marine transportation on the Great Lakes, showcasing HOPA Ports’ dedication to reducing emissions and fostering a greener maritime sector.
Port Colborne Marine Biofuel Terminal: Advancing Biofuel Distribution
The Port Colborne Marine Biofuel Terminal is a groundbreaking $33 million project, with $13.8 million in federal funding from Transport Canada. This new facility, a collaboration between HOPA Ports, Canada Clean Fuels, and Canada Steamship Lines, will span 12 acres and have an 8-million-litre capacity. Once operational, the terminal will distribute up to 70 million litres of biodiesel annually, enough to fuel over 100 vessels each year.
Honourable Anita Anand, President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Transport, expressed the broader impact of these initiatives: “Our ports are essential gateways to Canada’s economy. These innovative projects will help us protect our planet, build a greener economy for Canadians, reduce emissions, and keep our communities connected.”
The Port Colborne terminal’s location enables near year-round service, making it a strategic addition to the region’s logistics network. The facility is projected to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by approximately 144,000 tonnes by 2030, and 2.8 million tonnes over its lifetime, making it a vital step toward achieving Canada’s climate goals.
Sterling Fuels’ Greener Future Project: Expanding Biofuel Infrastructure
HOPA Ports also congratulates its partner, Sterling Fuels, on receiving $2 million in funding from the Green Shipping Corridors Program for its $4 million project at the Port of Hamilton. This project will enhance Sterling Fuels’ biofuel storage and delivery capacity with the construction of two new tanks, along with the necessary pumps and piping. These improvements will ensure that Sterling Fuels can meet the growing demand for sustainable biofuels in the region, further supporting the transition to cleaner marine fuels.
Ian Hamilton, President & CEO of HOPA Ports, highlighted the project’s significance “Ships already represent the most efficient way to move cargo, producing fewer emissions than rail and trucking. With these new biofuel facilities, we’re making marine transportation even cleaner and setting new standards for sustainable shipping on the Great Lakes.”
Chris Bittle, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, praised the initiatives, noting, “As we continue to feel the impacts of climate change, our government is committed to building a greener economy. Projects like this are a step toward a greener marine sector, ensuring our ports remain vital for trade while leading the way in environmental stewardship and sustainable growth for our communities.”
A Green Future for the Great Lakes
HOPA Ports, Canada Clean Fuels Inc., The CSL Group Inc., and Sterling Fuels are leading the charge in reducing emissions and supporting sustainable shipping on the Great Lakes. Thanks to Transport Canada’s Green Shipping Corridors Fund, these projects are crucial steps in fueling a greener, more sustainable future for the maritime industry.
About HOPA Ports
As an integrated port network, HOPA Ports operates innovative port and marine assets in Hamilton, Niagara, and Oshawa, Ontario. By prioritizing sustainability and investing in infrastructure, HOPA Ports is shaping the future of trade and creating prosperous working waterfronts in Ontario communities.
Vision: To create and lead an integrated port network on the Great Lakes to boost supply chain resilience.
Mission: Responsible stewards of port lands and their robust marine, road, and rail networks, facilitating commerce and delivering sustainable solutions for stakeholders.
With core values of safety, collaboration, accountability, respect, and innovation, HOPA Ports is committed to pioneering a sustainable future for the Great Lakes region’s maritime sector.
Source HOPA Ports