Owensboro planning for biodiesel plant
Associated Press
May 10, 2006
OWENSBORO, Ky. - A 50-million gallon biodiesel plant is planned for western Kentucky, and officials hope to have it in full operation by mid-2007.
The plant is a multi-million dollar project by Owensboro Grain with help from a grant from the Kentucky Agriculture Development Board and a low-interest loan from the Agriculture Finance Corp.
There are currently 53 biodiesel plants in operation across the country with 40 more planned. Groundbreaking for the new Owensboro plant is scheduled for May 18.
The plant, which officials said will employ between 10 and 15 people, will use vegetable oil from soybeans grown in Kentucky and the area for biodiesel production, officials said. Kentucky produces about 54 million bushels of soybeans annually with 11 pounds of oil processed from each bushel.
Biodiesel is a fuel derived from vegetable oil and animal fats. It's primary use is as a blend in diesel fuel.