PBF Energy to use Ecofining tech if Chalmette renewable diesel project advances

PBF Energy Inc. plans to use the Ecofining™ technology developed jointly by Honeywell’s UOP and Eni SpA for a potential renewable diesel project at its Chalmette Refinery in Louisiana, according to Honeywell. PBF is currently evaluating the conversion of an idle hydrocracking unit at the plant to a single-stage Ecofining unit that, if built, could produce 840,000 gallons per day, or more than 306 million gallons per year, of renewable diesel. A final investment decision by PBF is expected soon.

“If we decide to go forward with this project, UOP’s Ecofining technology will enable us to create value by repurposing an idle process unit to produce renewable diesel before competitors get their units on line,” said PBF Energy President Matt Lucey. “This project would also maximize the benefits of Chalmette’s strategic Gulf Coast location with excellent water, rail, and truck access to domestic and global markets with the strongest demand for renewable diesel, enabling us to realize highest rates of return.”

According to Honeywell, the Ecofining process uses a combination of catalysts in a single operating environment to remove oxygenates and other contaminants from the feedstock, and then isomerizes the feed to improve its cold-flow properties. Honeywell says the simplified design allows the process to be put into service quickly with lower capital expense than others.

“With current demand for renewable fuels especially strong domestically, PBF Energy is well positioned with its Chalmette facility to contribute to the growth of sustainable biofuels,” said Ben Owens, the vice president and general manager for Honeywell Sustainable Technology Solutions. “Customers such as PBF Energy trust UOP to convert existing process units to renewable diesel and jet fuel production, so they can comply with more stringent regulations while saving costs and space for equipment.”

UOP has licensed 21 Ecofining units in nine countries processing 12 different types of biobased feedstocks.