LIGNOFLAG flagship for bio-ethanol production

With the European Climate Law as part of the European Green Deal, the EU has set itself the ambitious objective of becoming climate neutral by 2050. Biofuels such as cellulosic ethanol will play a major in role in decarbonising the transport sector, which is responsible for 25% of the EU's total greenhouse gas emissions. With the world’s first commercial-scale production plant for cellulosic ethanol made from agricultural residues, project coordinator Clariant aims to demonstrate that the commercial production of cellulosic ethanol on the basis of the sunliquid® technology is technically feasible, economically viable, and competitive. The plant located in Podari (Romania) will produce more than 50,000 tons of cellulosic ethanol annually. By-products of the process can be re-used as fertiliser and for energy production. The feedstock will be sourced from local farmers, promoting local fuel production, creating green jobs, and stimulating economic growth in this rural area.