- The project will produce 12,000 tons of CO2-neutral biomethanol annually by 2024.
- It will reduce up to 30,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year.
- The investment is 50 million euros, supported by a Finnish government grant.
- The concept is replicable at around 80% of pulp mills worldwide.
Project Overview
Veolia has launched a biorefinery project to produce CO2-neutral biomethanol from a pulp mill in Finland. This initiative aims to unlock the potential of biomethanol as an alternative biofuel feedstock, a largely untapped resource.
Collaboration and Technology
Developed in partnership with Metsä Fibre, Europe's largest cooperative forestry association, the refinery will utilize Veolia’s industrial-scale concept for commercial biomethanol production. This process integrates the refining of crude sulphate methanol into the pulp production process.
Environmental Impact
The project will contribute to European energy security and support the European Green Deal's decarbonization goals for transportation. The CO2-neutral biomethanol produced will serve as a sustainable, low-carbon fuel alternative to fossil fuels.
Production and Investment
Located adjacent to Metsä Fibre’s Äänekoski plant, the refinery will have an annual production capacity of 12,000 tons and is expected to be operational by 2024. The project will help avoid up to 30,000 tons of CO2 emissions per year. The total investment for the project is 50 million euros, supported by a grant from the Finnish Ministry of Economy and Employment.
Scalability
Veolia’s industrial concept is replicable at approximately 80% of pulp mills worldwide, with the potential to produce an estimated 2 million tons of CO2-neutral biomethanol globally.
