Successful shipment proves the viability of the BitCrude™ transportation solution that exceeds Canadian regulatory requirements.

CALGARY, Alberta, Sept. 25, 2019 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Calgary based Melius Energy 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’s first BitCrude™ transportation process demonstration, proving the ability to move bitumen safely and efficiently, in adherence to Canada’s regulatory framework.    

“Now that we have tested the intermodal transportation method for exporting bitumen, Melius Energy is focused on scaling the BitCrude™ transportation solution,” said the company’s President, Nicole Zhang. “Establishing a transportation solution for Canadian energy that delivers tremendous value for local producers while satisfying the demand for our energy internationally is our priority.”

Melius 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. The DRUs are modular, stackable and scalable; all to reduce environmental impact and improve efficiencies. 

“BitCrude™ partnered with Melius Energy to commercialize and market our innovative transportation solution for bitumen,” said BitCrude™ creator, Cal Broder. “We have now proven that we can ship bitumen to international markets safely and efficiently.”

Media Contact:
Christina Pilarski, CEO, CIPR Communications 
E: christina@ciprcommunications.com
M: 403-826-8249

About Melius Energy
www.meliusenergy.com
Melius Energy is a Calgary-based, Canadian owned, energy firm committed to the safe and responsible transportation of Canadian bitumen to international markets. Founded in 2019, Melius Energy is built on the belief that Canadian bitumen can be transported, domestically and internationally, in a safe and economical way. For more information visit www.meliusenergy.com.

About BitCrude™
www.bitcrude.ca
The BitCrude™ process has been perfected as a result of over a decade of research, testing and demonstration. Founded by Cal Broder, BitCrude™ has developed a process that creates semi-solid bitumen, using a diluent recovery unit process. BitCrude™ is unique because of its scalable, adaptable, modular design. For more information visit www.bitcrude.ca. 

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/b1904408-2ea1-47c2-b29a-6063059ad8fa