Clariant starts the construction of its cellulosic ethanol plant in Romania

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Type of post: NEWS IN BRIEF.

Last November, Clariant confirmed the approval of the investment in the first large-scale commercial Sunliquid plant for the production of cellulosic ethanol from agricultural residues (see “Clariant gives the green light to the building of the LIGNOFLAG biorefinery in Romania”, 3/11/2017). Now, its construction is officially underway (see press release, 12/9/2018). The occasion was marked with a traditional groundbreaking ceremony in Podari (near Craiova in southwestern Romania), which was attended by official representatives of the Romanian government, the Swiss Ambassador and a Clariant representation.

Figure 1. Groundbreaking ceremony for Clariant cellulosic ethanol plant in Podari (extracted from the press release)

The decision in favor of Craiova was due partly to the existence of a secure regional supply of feedstock and partly to the existing logistic and industrial infrastructure in the area. The investment represents biggest industrial commitment by an international corporation in the region and will provide a whole range of benefits for it. The new facility will allow local farmers to industrially market straw for the first time (practically unutilized agricultural residue up to now). During the construction phase, several hundred construction workers will be employed from locally based companies. After completion, the plant is expected to provide around 300 permanent jobs in supporting industries serving the site and in the transportation and storage of the feedstock. The plant itself will employ a workforce of between 100 and 120. Clariant plans to recruit its workforce locally and provide training both in its own laboratories in Planegg (Munich) and at the pre-commercial Sunliquid plant (Straubing, Bavaria).

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