Web exclusive posted Feb. 5, 2008, at 1:53 p.m. CST

Tellurian Biodiesel, a California-based biodiesel marketer, has announced its acquisition of Superior Process Technologies from rendering company Baker Commodities. SPT has been developing technology to convert rendered materials into biodiesel for Baker since 2003.

Tellurian is currently developing several biodiesel production faciilities throughout the United States that would use all types of lower-grade oils as feedstocks, including waste oil and various types of animal fats. The company has been collaborating with Baker Commodities and SPT since 2006, and the purchase should prove to be beneficial for all involved parties. "Baker Commodities will realize great long-term value from this sale," said Jim Andreoli, owner and president of Baker Commodities. "We are very pleased with Tellurian's focus on producing high-quality biodiesel from rendered materials, and look forward to continuing our work with them and SPT following the acquisition."

Joe Gershen, Tellurian's vice president of sales and marketing, said that using lower-grade fats is less expensive but also requires more technology to make them effective. He said SPT's engineering expertise and technology will give Tellurian more versatility in its use of feedstocks.

"We are eager to proceed with several of Tellurian's project initiatives and contribute to the success of this growing biodiesel industry, and we are very fortunate to be moving from one great employer to another," said Kirk Cobb, senior engineer at SPT.

All of the SPT employees will be retained, and the company will now serve as Tellurian's engineering department.