2016-07-29 02:54:17
WPAC Members,
We are back on the beautiful west coast this year with a new venue and a great lineup of speakers, representing all stakeholders in the industry, all geared to help you learn, network and have a bit of fun!
The calibre of people throughout our industry always amazes me. There is a mix of intellect and entrepreneurialism, science and business. All are pioneers in a new and complex global business!
The wood pellet industry has seen its share of ups and downs over the last several years and this last year has been a challenging one. Nevertheless the pioneers persevere, put things into perspective, seeing and capitalizing on the opportunities that lie ahead.
Our theme for this year’s conference is “Expanding Horizons: New opportunities for Canadian Biomass,” and reflects that spirit to look to the future and work to capitalize on the opportunities that are in front of us.
This year’s conference will be kicked off on the morning of day one with a wood pellet quality certification workshop. A great opportunity to expand on your knowledge base!
The wood pellet quality workshop will cover the international pellet standards requirements and review the quality certification schemes and how to obtain them (ENplus, CANplus and PFI). This is a must-do workshop and very relevant as the industry works towards standardization.
The workshop will be followed by the opening of the general plenary session of the conference. We will begin with an overview of the global markets followed by a global biomass power project update, a look at the future for biomass power generation in the Netherlands and a North American heat market update.
You do not want to miss our backyard barbecue party from 6 to 9 p.m. on the evening of day one. Dress down and come to network and socialize with everyone in a casual environment. I am told one of the industry’s true pioneers will be ensuring the food will blow you away and I am sure the entertainment will as well.
Day two will begin with the always popular “Power Panel”. Join the industry’s thought leaders from both producers and utilities as they share their views on the state of the industry and its future.
Then learn about the Canadian fibre outlook – the lifeblood of all pellet plants.
Rounding out the morning we have one of the most important topics covered annually, “Keeping our People Safe.” Find out about the great work WPAC’s safety committee is doing and how that work is being deployed in plants across Canada.
In the afternoon learn about the business case for biomass co-firing in Alberta; Alberta’s emissions and Canada’s biomass resources in perspective; and the role of biomass in Alberta’s Clean Energy Plan.
Day two will end with a networking reception from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.
Then on day three we are partnered with DEMO International for a full day of forestry equipment demonstrations in beautiful Maple Ridge, B.C. This event is only held every four years and is a must-see.
See you all Sept. 20 to 22 in B.C., as we work to “expand our horizons” at the 2016 WPAC AGM and conference. An event you do not want to miss!
Rene Landry President Wood Pellet Association of Canada
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