Community Fuels gets $4.1M grant to expand process capabilities

The California Energy Commission approved a grant award of $4.18 million to biodiesel producer Community Fuels to support installation of new equipment that will increase efficiencies and expand the range of low-carbon feedstocks that its 15 MMgy Port of Stockton plant can process.

“Community Fuels is currently completing two projects—expanding production capacity and building an advanced biofuel terminal,” said Lisa Mortenson, co-founder and CEO. “This new award is for a third, distinct project that is complementary to our current projects. We planned our business to be built in an incremental manner while we validated various technologies and market conditions. This new project will position Community Fuels to serve the future needs of California’s transportation fuel market.”

William Crooks, corporate controller, said, “Grant funding accelerates the pace at which we expand our capabilities. Our team has a strong track record of completing grant-funded projects; each project that we successfully complete helps to build confidence in our business and our long-term growth opportunities.”

“Our team always is looking for ways to drive efficiencies throughout our production process,” said Christopher Young, director of operations. “This new project will enable us to expand our capabilities and improve our existing operations. Because the project is being completed at our active advanced biorefinery, we are able to leverage the substantial amount of existing infrastructure. Also, our on-site BQ-9000 laboratory will be utilized to assist in design and commissioning efforts. Ultimately our laboratory will ensure that all biodiesel produced meets our customers’ stringent fuel quality standards.”

American Biodiesel Inc., doing business as Community Fuels, built its biodiesel production facility using its proprietary technology, which has been in operation since 2008. Community Fuels was the first in the nation to earn both BQ-9000 producer and laboratory certifications.