Crimson Renewable Energy showcases newly expanded biodiesel plant

The recent expansion of Crimson Renewable Energy’s ultra-low carbon biodiesel production facility leads to a tripling of production and puts Kern County on the map as California’s leading producer of advanced biofuels, company officials announced Oct. 6 at an event unveiling the newly revamped facility.

At the ceremony, the company showcased its expanded facility in Bakersfield, which serves as a model for how renewable fuel production in California is creating green jobs, supporting the local economy, reducing greenhouse gases and improving California’s air quality.

“We are thrilled to be in the forefront of the green energy economy,” said Harry Simpson, the company’s president and CEO. “With our expanded plant, Crimson is playing a major role in meeting the state’s growing demand for advanced biofuels and helping California achieve its carbon reduction and clean air goals while making a large positive contribution to the state’s economy.”

Crimson recently completed a multimillion dollar plant upgrade that was partially funded by a matching grant from the California Energy Commission’s Alternative Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program. The upgrades included expansion of steam and other existing systems as well as the installation of new second-generation systems, which will enable the plant reduce unit energy consumption and water consumption by 10 to 15 percent. The plant is now ramping up to its new full production level of 24 MMgy of ultra-low carbon biodiesel fuel made entirely from used cooking oils and other inedible raw materials, Simpson said.

“Our current production level generates carbon reductions that are equivalent to taking 43,000 cars off California roads and as we ramp up, this will be like removing 55,500 cars,” he said. “The success of our facility is a prime example of why it is critical for the public and state’s policymakers to continue supporting the development of renewable transportation fuels, particularly ultra-low carbon advanced biofuels.”

A number of top state and local officials attended the Oct. 6 event and toured the facility.

“Transitioning to cleaner, low carbon fuels is a key component for California to achieve our greenhouse gas emissions reduction goals, improve our air quality and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels,” said Commissioner Janea A. Scott of the CEC. “The Energy Commission is pleased to invest in projects like Crimson Renewable Energy’s biofuels project that will produce some 24 million gallons of low carbon fuel annually.”

High-ranking officials from the California Air Resources Board were also on hand to participate in the event.

“The advanced biofuels being developed right here in Kern County clearly demonstrate the viability and promise of California’s emissions reduction program,” said Dean Florez, a CARB board member. “The expansion of Crimson’s operation is not only an example of green business growth, but it also shows how the low carbon fuel standard and other policies are effectively addressing climate change and protecting public health by improving air quality in a very tangible way.”