Expansion Of Crimson Renewable Energy Facility, Establishes Kern Co. As State's Top Producer Of Advanced Biofuels

Benefits of Operation Include Jobs, Boost to Local Economy and Improved Air Quality Equivalent to 55,000 Cars Taken Off the Road

Bakersfield, CA (PRWEB) - 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 today at an event unveiling the newly revamped facility.

At today’s ceremony, the company showcased its expanded facility, 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 multi-million 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 10-15%. The plant is now ramping up to its new full production level of 24 million gallons annually of ultra-low carbon biodiesel fuel made entirely from used cooking oils and other inedible raw materials, he 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 today’s 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 California Energy Commission. “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 (CARB) 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."

About Crimson Renewable Energy, LP 
Crimson Renewable Energy is California’s largest producer of high-quality, ultra-low carbon biodiesel and a leading participant in the future of advanced biofuels and transportation fuels. We provide highly reliable delivery and superior customer service throughout California and surrounding states combined with flexible contract structures for duration and pricing. Crimson also provides the flexibility and financial dependability that is highly valued by its supply chain partners.