Plans for a South Surrey biofuel plant appear dead. Community concerns, lost funding, and a shift to housing have ended the controversial project.
Biofuel Project in South Surrey Hits a Dead End
For months, the proposed biofuel plant in South Surrey stirred debate, frustration, and protests. Now, that long-running controversy appears to be over. According to recent reports, plans to build the facility on Semiahmoo First Nation (SFN) land have been dropped entirely.
While many residents waited for clarity, word arrived quietly through an update shared by the now-dissolved Clean Air Alliance. The group, which formed to oppose the project, says the First Nation has changed course.
Focus Shifts From Fuel to Housing
According to whiterocksun.com, SFN Chief Harley Chappell has confirmed that the Nation is now prioritizing housing development on the land instead of moving forward with the biofuel facility.
Although Chief Chappell was not immediately available to comment publicly, the update signals a major pivot. As a result, a project that once dominated local conversation may now be firmly off the table.
A Proposal That Sparked Immediate Pushback
From the start, the plant faced strong resistance. The facility was planned for roughly two hectares of SFN land near Highway 99, about one kilometre north of the Canada–U.S. border. Once the idea surfaced in late June 2023, concerns spread quickly through the community.
The project involved a partnership between SFN and Andion’s North American division, which later rebranded as Taurus RNG. However, despite promises of sustainability, many residents remained unconvinced.
Community Concerns Took Center Stage
Opponents raised alarms on several fronts. They worried about environmental damage, health risks, increased traffic, and unpleasant odours. In addition, fears about air quality, noise, and falling property values fueled ongoing opposition.
Because of these concerns, rallies and public demonstrations followed. Environmental advocate David Hancock became a visible voice against the project, speaking at a protest in October 2023.
Promised Benefits Couldn’t Ease Doubts
At the time, Chief Chappell defended the proposal, calling it “true sustainability.” He also stressed that extensive due diligence had taken place.
Supporters pointed to impressive projections. The plant was expected to cut about 55,000 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year. It also aimed to divert 70,000 tonnes of organic waste from landfills, produce renewable natural gas, reduce fertilizer use, and create jobs and revenue for the Nation.
Still, despite those promises, skepticism never faded.
Funding Withdrawal Changed the Momentum
The project’s future dimmed significantly in February 2024. At that point, Natural Resources Canada pulled $14.4 million in federal funding. Officials said the department was no longer a federal authority on the project.
Soon after, Metro Vancouver confirmed that the project’s air-permit application had been paused. The pause followed a request for more technical information, further slowing progress.
From there, momentum never recovered.
Clean Air Alliance Wraps Up Its Work
With the project no longer moving forward, the Clean Air Alliance officially dissolved. Any remaining funds raised during the fight were donated to environmental causes.
One recipient was the Hancock Wildlife Foundation, which received $2,000. Another environmental charity received $5,886.66 but asked to remain unnamed. Minor expenses, such as website hosting and banking fees, were deducted before the donations were made.
In a final message, an alliance spokesperson thanked supporters for helping turn grassroots opposition into meaningful environmental contributions.
A Contentious Chapter Comes to a Close
For South Surrey residents, the apparent cancellation brings relief and closure. After months of debate, protests, and uncertainty, the land appears set for a very different future.
While the biofuel plant promised innovation, the community’s voice ultimately shaped the outcome. And for now, housing—not heavy industry—seems to be the path forward.
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