Crimson Renewable Energy has completed an expansion of its biodiesel plant located in Kern County, California more than tripling annual production. The company says that their plant is a model for the benefits of biodiesel including job creation, local economic support, greenhouse gas emission reductions and air quality improvement. The company held an unveiling event to showcase its updated facility. Several state and local officials attended the celebration and toured the facility.
“Transitioning to cleaner, low carbon fuels is a key component for California to achieve our greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals, improve our air quality and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels,” said Commissioner Janea A. Scott of the California Energy Commission who participated in the event. “The Energy Commission is pleased to invest in projects like Crimson Renewable Energy’s biofuels project that will produce some 24 million gallons of low carbon fuel annually.”
Harry Simpson, Crimson Renewable Energy president and CEO said of the completion of the project, “We are thrilled to be in the forefront of the green energy economy. With our expanded plant, Crimson is playing a major role in meeting the state’s growing demand for advanced biofuels and helping California achieve its carbon reduction and clean air goals while making a large positive contribution to the state’s economy.” Simpson added, “The success of our facility is a prime example of why it is critical for the public and state’s policymakers to continue supporting the development of renewable transportation fuels, particularly ultra-low carbon advanced biofuels.”
A grant from the California Energy Commission enabled Crimson to complete the multi-million dollar project. The funds were distributed through the Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program. Plant improvements and upgrades included expansion of steam and other existing systems as well as the installation of new second generation systems, which will enable the plant reduce unit energy consumption and water consumption by 10-15 percent, according to Simpson. He said the biodiesel facility is now ramping up to its new full production level of 24 million gallons per year of ultra-low carbon biodiesel fuel made entirely from used cooking oils and other inedible raw materials.
High-ranking officials from the California Air Resources Board (CARB) were also on hand. “The advanced biofuels being developed right here in Kern County clearly demonstrate the viability and promise of California’s emissions reduction program,” said Dean Florez, a CARB board member. “The expansion of Crimson’s operation is not only an example of green business growth, but it also shows how the Low Carbon Fuel Standard and other policies are effectively addressing climate change and protecting public health by improving air quality in a very tangible way.”