Dozens of jobs are set to be created in a new £9 million plant at a Co Derry waste site, which will convert biogas from landfill into biofuel.
London-based Renovare Fuels said the operation at Craigmore, near Randalstown, will be a first for Europe, supplying multinational petrochemical and airline companies.
The company, which specialises in the conversion of biogas to liquid fuel, has partnered with Larne’s B9 Energy and Wigan consultancy firm, Powerhouse Management, for the Craigmore project.
Renovare said the plant, using patented technology developed in collaboration with NASA, will open in 2024 and see close to two million litres of advanced renewable biofuels produced each year.
It said the biofuel will act as a ‘drop in’ replacement for diesel and aviation fuel, with no requirement for engine modifications, potentially cutting greenhouse gas emissions by up to 97%.
It has been developed in the United States in collaboration with sister company T2C Energy, NASA, and the US Department of Energy.
The company believes biofuels can support industries facing the largest barriers to net zero, including the road haulage, maritime and aviation sectors.
“Renovare Fuels are delighted to be commencing operations in Northern Ireland.,” said Renovare Fuels’ chairman, Matthew Stone.
“This crucial investment will ensure we play a leading role in creating a sustainable future for the transport sector.
“As we work to meet our global climate goals, we have an exciting opportunity to scale up the UK’s production of renewable fuels, producing more than 1.8 million litres per year in Northern Ireland to support the industries that face the largest barriers to the net zero transition.”
The London firm said it expects the fuel will qualify for extra support under the Department for Transport’s Renewable Transport Fuel Obligation.
Ian Harvey, founder of B9 Energy Control Limited, added: “We’re proud to be supporting Renovare Fuels’ landmark investment today, which paves the way for Northern Ireland to play an important role in supporting businesses transition to net-zero.
“The new operations in County Derry present an opportune moment to kickstart a sustainable fuels drive across the UK. We look forward to continuing to support this development in the new year.”
