- Construction of the 2G bioethanol plant began in January 2023.
- The plant will produce up to 21 million liters of bioethanol annually.
- Commercial operations are set to start in the first half of 2024.
- The project will reduce CO2 emissions by approximately 25,000 tons annually.
Project Overview
Rayonier Advanced Materials Inc. (RYAM) has commenced construction of a second-generation (2G) bioethanol plant in Tartas, Les Landes, France. The groundbreaking ceremony took place on June 15, 2023, with construction having started in January 2023. The plant is designed to produce up to 21 million liters of bioethanol annually and is expected to begin commercial operations in the first half of 2024.
Environmental Impact
The 2G bioethanol produced at the new facility will have a 90% smaller carbon footprint compared to fossil fuel-based gasoline. This initiative is projected to eliminate approximately 25,000 tons of CO2 emissions annually, contributing significantly to reducing carbon emissions in the European market.
Technological Advancements
RYAM will utilize wood-based feedstock, capturing residual sugars from existing biomaterials refinement processes to produce the bioethanol. This approach enhances the circularity of the Tartas plant’s operations, ensuring a significant portion of sustainably sourced trees is used for higher-value commercial end uses.
Regulatory Compliance and Partnerships
The plant has received certification from ISCC EU, conforming with the Renewable Energy Directive (RED II). RYAM has also entered a long-term off-take agreement with a large international petrochemicals company to purchase the 2G bioethanol. A significant portion of the investment has been financed through low-cost green loans.
