Calgary 鈥� Calgary based Melius Energy said in a release on Sept. 25 it has successfully transported bitumen from Edmonton, Alberta to Prince Rupert, British Columbia, continuing to global markets in custom 20-foot shipping containers utilizing intermodal rail and vessel infrastructure. The shipment is the company鈥檚 first BitCrude transportation process demonstration, proving the ability to move bitumen safely and efficiently, in adherence to Canada鈥檚 regulatory framework.聽
鈥淣ow that we have tested the intermodal transportation method for exporting bitumen, Melius Energy is focused on scaling the BitCrude transportation solution,鈥� said the company鈥檚 president, Nicole Zhang. 鈥淓stablishing a transportation solution for Canadian energy that delivers tremendous value for local producers while satisfying the demand for our energy internationally is our priority.鈥�
Melius said it continues to establish relationships with refineries in Asia and is working to provide a long-term, stable supply of bitumen to these customers. The refineries that Melius is currently working with plan to refine Alberta bitumen into products such as asphalt and low-sulphur diesel.
The product that comes out of the BitCrude process is safe to transport in 20-foot custom shipping containers on standard rail and vessel infrastructure both domestically and internationally. Transported as a semi-solid, the bitumen is designated as a non-dangerous good and non-flammable for transportation purposes, floats in both fresh and saltwater in custom designed shipping containers and is non-toxic to marine life. The product meets or exceeds all regulatory requirements of Bill C-48, ensuring safe and efficient export out of the Port of Prince Rupert.
The BitCrude process uses a state-of-the-art electrically powered diluent recovery unit (DRU), avoiding further fossil fuel combustion and requires no chemicals, additives or diluent, creating both a safer product, and a facility with a reduced green house gas footprint, according to Melius. The DRUs are modular, stackable and scalable; all to reduce environmental impact and improve efficiencies.聽
鈥淏itCrude partnered with Melius Energy to commercialize and market our innovative transportation solution for bitumen,鈥� said BitCrude鈩� creator, Cal Broder. 鈥淲e have now proven that we can ship bitumen to international markets safely and efficiently.鈥�
