In a bold move to advance renewable energy, Woodland Biofuels, Inc., a Toronto-based company, has declared a substantial $1.35 billion investment in Southeast Louisiana. According to an announcement by the Louisiana Economic Development, this project aims to build one of the largest renewable biofuels production facilities in the world at the Port of South Louisiana, leveraging waste biomass to produce sustainable energy used in various sectors.
This elaborate plan boasts of potentially creating 110 direct new jobs with over $90,000 average yearly salaries, while indirectly generating an estimated 259 more, totaling 369 new jobs in the region. The project is also anticipated to quickly provide approximately 500 construction jobs. Louisiana Economic Development Secretary Susan B. Bourgeois expressed optimism, saying, "With a multigenerational skilled workforce and abundant natural resources, there is no place in the world better positioned to help energy companies grow and thrive." She remarked on the long-term job prospects for the people of St. John the Baptist Parish and the state's commitment to fully bringing the project to fruition.
The proposed facility at the Globalplex Intermodal Terminal will include the world's largest renewable natural gas production plant. CEO Greg Nuttall told the Louisiana Economic Development, "Our sustainable biofuel plant will be an economic driver for St. John Parish and beyond." Nuttall highlighted the company's eagerness to build lasting community relationships and leverage local talent and infrastructure.
With a FEED study expected to complete by the second quarter of 2025 and a final investment decision by year-end, commercial operations for the renewable natural gas plant are projected to start in 2028. The project has further garnered support through a $10 million performance-based infrastructure grant and employment solutions from the Louisiana Economic Development FastStart. Woodland Biofuels also plans to take part in state incentive programs focused on quality jobs and industrial tax exemptions. "This significant investment by Woodland Biofuels to construct the world's largest carbon negative renewable natural gas plant and a large-scale green hydrogen facility at our Globalplex Intermodal Terminal proves that PortSL and the state of Louisiana are leading the way in diversifying our energy industry, which will result in the creation of hundreds of high-paying jobs for River Region families," commented Port of South Louisiana CEO Paul Matthews.
Greater New Orleans, Inc President and CEO Michael Hecht also applauded the project, stating, "$1.3 billion plus 110 new jobs plus renewable natural gas and hydrogen is a winning formula for everyone. Congratulations to the Port of South Louisiana," as per the Louisiana Economic Development. Opportunities for employment and updates about the project are open for registration at Woodland Biofuels' official website.
