Braya Renewable Fuels begins commercial production of renewable diesel in Canada

The newly converted Braya Renewable Fuels refinery in Come By Chance, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada, overlooking Placentia Bay. (Photo: CNW Group/Braya Renewable Fuels)

Braya Renewable Fuels announced Feb. 22 it has achieved commercial operations at its converted refinery in Come By Chance, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

This marks the successful completion of its refinery-conversion project and is the beginning of providing reliable renewable fuel for the energy transition.

“We are incredibly grateful for all of the hard work and dedication of the Braya team that has allowed us to achieve commercial operations at the refinery,” said Braya CEO Todd O’Malley. “I would personally like to thank our workers, the community, all levels of government and our partners who have helped to bring our vision of a world-class renewable fuel facility to fruition. We are proud to be a cornerstone in the energy-transition path and to provide stable and long-term employment opportunities in the local community.”

Braya anticipates initial production capacity of 756,000 gallons per day of renewable diesel—or nearly 260 million gallons per year—with future plans to expand production capacity, add sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production capabilities and explore green-hydrogen production.

The on-site production of renewable diesel, SAF and green hydrogen offers proven alternatives to fossil fuels and significantly decreases the carbon emissions linked to hard-to-abate sectors such as heavy-duty transport, aviation and heavy industry.

Cresta Fund Management, a Dallas, Texas-based private-equity firm, acquired a controlling interest in the once-idled petroleum refinery in November 2021 and, through this conversion project, has resurrected a vital asset for the local Newfoundland and Labrador community.

The conversion project supported more than 800 jobs during the construction phase and will now provide 200 stable, full-time positions to support ongoing operations.

“This is an exciting time for Braya as they commence commercial operations, and it demonstrates the tremendous effort and specialized expertise the team has applied to successfully achieve this complex conversion,” said Chris Rozzell, Braya’s chairman of the board and Cresta’s managing partner. “Braya will now play a key role in the energy transition, fueling a low-carbon economy and creating long-term value for its investors and stakeholders.”

Braya’s ownership group includes Cresta, majority owner and controlling investor, North Atlantic Refining Corp., which is managed by Silverpeak and Energy Capital Partners.

Braya plans to hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony for invited guests at the facility in the spring to recognize this important milestone and the multiple stakeholders who have contributed to and supported the project.