World Energy partners with Dow

World Energy Alternatives LLC has added another important producer to its growing biodiesel distribution network. Dow Haltermann Custom Processing (DHCP) is producing biodiesel exclusively for World Energy at its Houston, Texas, location.
World Energy and Dow announced the production agreement Jan. 17.

DHCP is a Dow business unit comprised of operations within the Dow Chemical Co. and Johann Haltermann Ltd. Dow is the world's largest chemical producer.

The existing multi-purpose facility began producing biodiesel in October, according to DHCP Commercial Director Ed Greene. He said the plant is currently producing approximately 12 mmgy with the intention of doubling production before the end of the year.
Greene said this was the first time Dow Haltermann had produced biodiesel, although the company has worked with similar chemistry in converting fatty acid methyl esters. "[DHCP] does custom processing throughout the chemical industry," Greene said. "We are accustomed to large-scale production, and producing biodiesel fits our business model well."

Gene Gebolys, World Energy president and founder, noted the significance of the plant's strategic location along the Houston Ship Channel on the Texas Gulf Coast. The site provides access to water, rail and major highway transportation. "It's right on everyone's shipping lane," Gebolys said. "It's a very good location to ship to for the rest of the country and the world."

The Houston plant's crude glycerin is being refined at World Energy's Lakeland, Fla., glycerin refinery.
Greene said producing biodiesel fits in well with the Dow outlook. "Dow Chemical is very involved in sustainable development and alternative energy initiatives," he said.

"It's an important initiative for both companies," Gebolys said. "Dow takes their role in dealing with the environment and conservation very seriously. This project for them is an opportunity to be part of a growing industry and do the right thing environmentally."