Canada’s wood pellet sector is recognized around the world for its quality, sustainability and reliability. This position is no accident. It is supported by coordinated industry efforts through the Wood Pellet Association of Canada (WPAC), the sector’s national voice. We are a member‑driven organization and the unified voice of Canada’s world‑leading pellet industry.
We represent more than 50 producers and industry participants from coast to coast. Our role is to support the competitiveness of Canadian pellets, advance safety leadership and build long‑term market confidence—work that no single company can do as effectively on its own.
At a time of evolving global markets, tightening sustainability requirements and growing scrutiny of bioenergy, working together matters more than ever. Becoming a WPAC member is about contributing to our shared strength, credibility and long‑term resilience as a sector.
A Stronger Collective Voice at Home and Abroad
WPAC exists to help our members compete in both global and domestic markets. By working collectively, we represent members’ interests on critical trade, policy and regulatory issues that would be costly, complex and risky to address individually.
We build and maintain relationships in key international markets, particularly Japan and Europe, where evolving sustainability standards, regulatory frameworks and safety expectations directly affect market access for Canadian pellets.
In Japan—one of Canada’s most important long‑term pellet markets—we focus on stakeholder outreach and reinforcing Canada’s reputation as a reliable, sustainable supplier. Our work includes direct engagement with Japanese utilities and participation in international technical working groups, and an annual mission involving provincial and federal governments, as well as industry partners.
In Europe, we engage in discussions related to the Renewable Energy Directive (RED III) and the European Union Deforestation Regulation (EUDR), and we hold a seat on the European Pellet Council. For our members, this means staying aligned with evolving standards—critical for maintaining market access and customer confidence over the long term.
Here at home, we also work to expand and strengthen Canadian demand. A good example is our ongoing collaboration with NB Power on the potential conversion of the Belledune Generating Station in New Brunswick from coal to thermally treated pellets. This first‑of‑its‑kind project shows how coordinated industry engagement can support major energy transitions while opening new domestic opportunities for producers.
Safety Leadership That Protects People and Performance
Safety is a cornerstone of WPAC’s work and a key benefit of membership.
Through our long‑standing Safety Committee, we provide sector‑led leadership focused on strengthening safety culture across pellet operations. We publish guidance, share best practices and create space for collaboration on critical topics such as dryer operations, pellet storage and fire prevention. An example of this is our semi-annual Safety Summit being held in June.
Our multi‑year safety work plans help ensure continuity and focus—supporting members as they work to reduce risk, protect employees and strengthen long‑term operational performance.
This shared approach extends beyond individual plants. When producers, shippers, ports and service providers align around common safety expectations, risk is reduced across the entire supply chain.
Shared Benefits Across the Sector
WPAC’s membership structure reflects the diversity of organizations that make up Canada’s wood pellet industry. We welcome pellet producers as well as supply‑chain and associate members, recognizing that a healthy sector depends on strong collaboration across roles.
By representing shared priorities, we provide a forum for member perspectives to be communicated consistently in and through:
- Policy and regulatory discussions
- Pellet plant safety leadership
- Marketing and communications that promote the sustainability, quality, and reliability of Canadian wood pellets
- Activities that help grow and maintain both international and domestic markets
- Networking opportunities, including our annual WPAC Conference each September
By working together, members benefit from consistent messaging, shared expertise and long‑term relationship‑building with governments, utilities and international partners—outcomes that are difficult to achieve alone.
Inclusive Membership and Transparent Dues
WPAC membership is open to all Canadian pellet producers, customers, suppliers, businesses, agencies and individuals who share an interest in strengthening the industry. This inclusive approach reflects that the success of our sector depends on collaboration across the entire value chain.
Dues are structured to be transparent and proportional. Producing members contribute based on production volume, while supply‑chain and associate members pay fixed annual fees aligned with their roles. This ensures fairness while allowing us to deliver meaningful value on behalf of all members.
Strength in Numbers, Confidence in the Future
As membership grows, so does our capacity to invest in advocacy, visibility and engagement. Member contributions are leveraged by government and partner support, creating a multiplier effect that maximizes the impact of every dollar invested.
Progress in Canada’s wood pellet sector comes from consistent, collective effort. Whether we’re advancing market access, strengthening safety culture or reinforcing sector credibility, our work is always stronger when members are engaged.
By joining WPAC, members support their own businesses while contributing to a strong, resilient, and prosperous industry that benefits communities across Canada and reinforces our country’s position as a trusted global supplier of renewable energy.
Pooling resources, aligning priorities, and speaking with one voice ensures that our sector remains competitive and ready for the future. For those invested in the success of Canada’s wood pellet industry, WPAC membership is both a practical advantage and a shared commitment to long‑term success.