- The plant will produce 50,000 tons of biofuels from 250,000 tons of agricultural residues.
- The entire output is contracted to Shell under a multi-year agreement.
- The plant employs approximately 100 workers and sources feedstock from over 300 local farmers.
- The project receives funding from the EU's Seventh Framework Program and Horizon 2020.
Production and Contract
Clariant has commenced commercial production of cellulosic ethanol at its sunliquid® plant in Podari, Romania. The entire output is contracted to Shell under a multi-year agreement. The plant will produce approximately 50,000 tons of second-generation biofuels annually from 250,000 tons of locally sourced agricultural residues.
Applications and Environmental Impact
The cellulosic ethanol produced can be used as a drop-in solution for fuel blending and has potential applications in sustainable aviation fuel and bio-based chemicals. This advanced biofuel supports the decarbonization of the transport sector by providing up to 120% CO2 savings compared to fossil fuels.
Plant Details and Workforce
Located on a 10-hectare site, the plant employs around 100 workers. Contracts have been signed with more than 300 local farmers to ensure a steady supply of the necessary feedstock.
Funding and Support
The project receives funding from the European Union's Seventh Framework Program for research, technological development, and demonstration under Grant Agreement no. 322386 (SUNLIQUID) and from the Circular Bio-based Europe Joint Undertaking under the European Union's Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under Grant Agreement no. 709606 (LIGNOFLAG).
