Leaders Applaud DOE's Investment in Wabash Valley Resources for Clean Ammonia Production

$1.5 Billion DOE Loan to Wabash Valley Resources

On October 29, 2025, U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright announced a groundbreaking loan of $1.5 billion from the Department of Energy (DOE) to Wabash Valley Resources (WVR). This significant funding aims to elevate American fertilizer production, bolster energy independence, and rejuvenate regional economies. With the loan closure, national and state leaders, along with investors and technology partners, celebrated this vital investment that is expected to enhance the U.S.'s agricultural and industrial future.

The financing, part of the Energy Dominance Financing (EDF) initiative, supports WVR’s upcoming $2.6 billion project focused on the production of clean ammonia fertilizer. This project will convert an inactive clean-coal gasification facility into a manufacturing site for ammonia, which will provide a sustainable source of fertilizer for American farmers.

Voices of Support

Prominent leaders expressed their enthusiasm for this venture. Secretary Wright noted, "For too long, America has relied on foreign fertilizers. Under President Trump's administration, we're shifting that dependency. We're prioritizing American resources, labor, and innovation to better serve our agricultural needs."

Indiana's Governor Mike Braun echoed this sentiment, praising the investment as a pivotal move for the state. He remarked, "Wabash Valley Resources embodies a forward-thinking approach by transforming an unused fossil energy plant into a fertilizer production site, fostering energy autonomy and empowering local farmers. This initiative is essential for competing on a global scale."

U.S. Representative Mark Messmer highlighted the job creation and economic revitalization this project promises. "This investment is exactly what our communities need," he said. "Not only does it enhance energy self-sufficiency, but it also brings jobs and prosperity to Indiana’s 8th District."

Simon Greenshields, Chairman of the Board at WVR, expressed gratitude towards the DOE and local leadership for their support. "This vision became viable thanks to the unwavering backing from our local and federal leaders who understand the impact this project will have on Indiana’s energy infrastructure and the fertilizer supply chain for farmers across the nation."

International Collaboration

The project also marks a significant international collaboration, as WVR has garnered support from South Korean investment partners, including Hanwha Asset Management and Korea Investment Real Asset Management Co., Ltd. Greenshields acknowledged their role, stating, "This partnership exemplifies what can be achieved when U.S. governmental support aligns with global investment. Together, we are establishing a new framework for U.S.-Korea cooperation in energy innovation and resilience."

Dan Williams, WVR’s CEO, aimed to highlight the project's local impact. He said, "This is not merely an investment; it represents a transformative phase for a facility and the community behind it. With the collaboration of the DOE, local leaders, and skilled labor unions, we are creating jobs while paving the road toward a cleaner energy future for America."

Leading Technology Partners

Furthermore, industry leaders from supporting companies have voiced their commitment to enhancing U.S. energy capabilities through cutting-edge technologies. Lorenzo Simonelli, Chairman and CEO of Baker Hughes, emphasized the company's role in the project, indicating it will utilize advanced technology to bolster energy production sustainably.

CEO Ken West from Honeywell highlighted the importance of their carbon capture technologies in optimizing operations at WVR and minimizing environmental impact. "Cooperation with the DOE in advancing innovative solutions is crucial for enabling traditional industries to modernize, consequently increasing reliability in the U.S. energy sector."

This monumental loan closes a chapter on stringent reliance on external fertilizer sources, as leaders reaffirm their dedication to utilizing American resources while enhancing vital agricultural practices. The transformation of Wabash Valley Resources signals a significant stride toward a self-sufficient energy and agricultural future for the nation.