Renewable Energy Group selects BDI for feedstock pretreatment facility in Germany

Renewable Energy Group Inc. revealed Feb. 17 it will install a state-of-the-art feedstock pretreatment facility in Germany, enabling the company to refine some of the lowest carbon intensity, hardest to convert waste fats and oils for biobased diesel production. REG has selected Austria-based BDI-BioEnergy International GmbH as the engineering, procurement and construction partner. The project is located on the North Sea harbor of Emden, Germany, at the border to the Netherlands.

This project will enhance the ability of REG Emden and REG Oeding to produce renewable fuel from a wider variety of feedstocks, including ‘Generation 3’ advanced feedstocks as defined under the Renewable Energy Directive II. This strategic upgrade will enable the company to continue to expand its strong global sourcing and trading position, produce more deeply decarbonized fuel and better serve European customers seeking to accelerate their transition to cleaner energy.

“This strategic investment expands our already wide selection of feedstock options that we run at Emden and Oeding today, and qualifies us to better serve the growing demand for low carbon fuel options in Europe,” said CJ Warner, president and CEO of REG. “Upgrading our German production sites with our proprietary technology will position us well for the future, build on our supply assurance and empower us to further reduce the carbon intensity of the renewable fuels we produce.”

The RED II policy incentivizes waste and advanced feedstocks as Europe continues to emphasize decarbonization efforts. REG currently produces approximately 50 million gallons per year of biodiesel at its two German biorefineries, delivering carbon reduction impact in Europe, notably with on-road transportation and maritime customers.

“With our innovative RetroFit program, we are taking the two biodiesel plants to a completely new technical and economic level,” said Markus Dielacher, CEO of BDI-BioEnergy International. “The result is unique raw material flexibility, maximum plant availability and a measurably valuable contribution to the circular economy and CO2 reduction.”

REG acquired the biobased diesel plants in Germany in 2017 and has since opened a global trading office in Amsterdam for sourcing feedstocks and selling coproducts and fuels. REG has all required permits for construction and the project is expected to be completed in the second half of 2023 with start-up by year’s end.

“REG will continue to build on our track record of delivering high-quality fuels and being a trusted partner to waste producers seeking reliable offtake,” said Raymond Richie, REG vice president and managing director of international business. “As customers and suppliers demand more sustainable business practices, we are well positioned to play a key role in the circular supply chain.”