European Chemical Industry News & Insights

DSM selects BakerHicks for EPCM of methane-reducing feed additive plant

At a glance
  • The new facility will be the first large-scale production plant for Bovaer®, reducing methane emissions from cattle.
  • Construction began in November 2022 and is expected to be completed by 2025.
  • BakerHicks is responsible for detailed engineering, procurement, and construction management.
  • The project is supported by the Scottish Government through Scottish Enterprise.

Project Overview

The new facility will be the first large-scale production plant for Bovaer®, DSM’s innovative feed additive designed to reduce methane emissions from cattle. Bovaer® can reduce intestinal methane emissions by approximately 30% in dairy cows and 45% on average for beef cattle, contributing significantly to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Timeline and Phases

DSM first collaborated with BakerHicks on the initial concept stage in 2021. BakerHicks was appointed Principal Designer, responsible for developing and coordinating the concept and basic design. The project is now moving through the detailed engineering, procurement, and construction phases, with handover and commissioning expected in 2025. Construction began in November 2022.

Engineering and Design

BakerHicks has provided multi-disciplinary design and engineering services, including process and mechanical; piping; electrical, control, and instrumentation; architecture; civil and structural; building services; HSE; project and construction management; and procurement. The team has produced a fully integrated, intelligent model to incorporate the complex process technology into the Building Information Management (BIM) model.

Local Expertise and Sustainability

The BakerHicks team, combining local expertise from their UK offices and specialist process knowledge from their Swiss operations, has worked closely with DSM throughout the project. The emphasis is on appointing local specialists and suppliers to ensure sustainable working practices.

Support and Collaboration

The development of the Bovaer® plant at DSM’s Dalry site has been supported by the Scottish Government through Scottish Enterprise. Former First Minister Nicola Sturgeon attended the site’s groundbreaking ceremony on 30th November 2022.