USA BioEnergy and Honeywell are partnering to build a $2.8 billion renewable fuel plant in Newton County, which is expected to create 500 temporary jobs and 100 permanent positions.
The deal, which will use Honeywell’s control and safety systems at the site, clears the way for construction to begin on the plant designed to convert wood waste into sustainable aviation fuel.
“Our selection of Honeywell’s Experion® DCS and safety systems for our planned Bon Wier facility was a strategic decision to ensure we operate with the highest efficiency and safety standards,” said Nick Andrews, CEO of USA BioEnergy. “Honeywell’s proven expertise and innovative solutions will be instrumental in helping us achieve our mission of producing sustainable aviation fuel with the lowest carbon intensity score in the industry.”
Newton County Judge Ronald J. Cochran said the plant has been in the works for several years, and he expects the investment will help relieve the tax burden on homeowners in the county.
The new plant will bring up to 575 temporary jobs during the construction phase and 225 permanent jobs once the plant is running. The company’s forest-thinning operations also are expected to create new jobs. Once engineering is complete, BioEnergy will start construction. The company hopes to start commercial operations by the end of 2028.
The plant will serve to address the need for sustainable aviation fuel by converting forest thinning into sustainable aviation fuel. The company already has signed a 20-year agreement with Southwest Airlines, which allows the airline to purchase up to 680 million gallons of the fuel. Once mixed with jet fuel, the sustainable aviation fuel will help to avoid 30 million metric tons of CO2.
“Honeywell’s industry-leading automation and safety solutions will be at the forefront of USA BioEnergy’s SAF facility and will help play a meaningful role in advancing the future of aviation,” said Pramesh Maheshwari, President of Honeywell Process Solutions. “Our partnership not only reflects our vision of a sustainable future, but it also demonstrates our commitment to delivering cutting-edge solutions that drive efficiency through intelligent operations.”