#United States #Sustainable Aviation Fuel #DG Fuels #Nebraska BioEconomy #Phelps County

DG Fuels Launches Sustainable Aviation Fuel Plant

DG Fuels is on the verge of inaugurating its first sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) production facility in Phelps County, Nebraska. This significant development represents the company’s entry into the Midwest, illustrating how agriculture is integral to the aviation fuel sector. As generations of farmers continue to cultivate Nebraska’s fields, they are now playing a pivotal role in a transformative fuel production movement.

Julie Bushell, President of GSD, highlighted the growing recognition of agriculture's essence: "Private industry is finally looking at agriculture to reach their sustainability commitments," she stated. Bushell pointed out that agriculture has long been recognized as a key player in feeding and fueling the world, and with projects like DG Fuels, this potential is being realized.

Economic Impact on Local Farmers

The demand for SAF is set to significantly benefit Phelps County, providing new revenue streams for local farmers. DG Fuels focuses on utilizing corn stover—which is typically left on the field after harvest—transforming it into valuable SAF. This innovation assigns a new value to what was once considered waste, while also being considerate of sustainable farming practices.

Bushell emphasized the importance of maintaining soil health, noting that stover harvesting will be carefully managed. "In some years, the stover will be left on the ground to preserve the nutrients,” she explained, underscoring the initiative's commitment to sustainability alongside economic benefit. The project will incorporate soil testing to ensure that harvesting will not negatively impact soil conditions.

"The BioEconomy means you are equally invested in building soil health and maintaining water quality as you are in adding value to the crop," remarked Bushell. Protecting the health of local farms is essential for ensuring that DG Fuels can sustain its production in the long run, while also bolstering rural economic growth through responsible investment.

Promising Future for Air Travel

The corn stover harvested by local farmers will be converted into SAF, which aims to reduce carbon emissions in aviation by up to 80%. Major airlines like Delta and Southwest are already setting targets to utilize SAF in their operations, with Southwest committing to 10% SAF usage by 2030. Given that the United States operates over 45,000 flights daily, the potential impact of transitioning to SAF is immense.

The collective efforts of producers like DG Fuels could expedite the aviation industry's shift away from conventional jet fuel, which is responsible for nearly all of its carbon emissions.

Community Involvement and Support

A critical aspect of this project is involving local farmers in the Nebraska BioEconomy. By looking at the harvesting of corn stover as an opportunity rather than a burden, DG Fuels aims to foster a collaborative environment. "We want everyone at the table for this project to see how we can make it better,” Bushell stated, highlighting the importance of community involvement.

The Phelps County Development Corporation (PCDC) has been instrumental in facilitating community engagement and addressing infrastructure needs related to the project. Ron Tillery, Executive Director of PCDC, underlined the importance of providing accurate information to local residents as the project progresses, saying, "Our goal is to ensure that everyone has access to accurate, up-to-date information.”

A Bright Future for Phelps County Farmers

Initiatives like the DG Fuels production facility are set to generate significant interest from local farmers and open up new career pathways for the younger generation. Bushell anticipates that local kids will grow up with aspirations to become engineers, biochemists, and operational specialists within the agricultural sector, allowing them to remain in their communities.

Furthermore, the SAF production will stimulate other business opportunities as the population grows, ultimately enhancing the overall quality of life in Phelps County. "A small group of people can accomplish anything when they work together,” Bushell noted, recognizing the collaborative spirit that exists in the region.

As the DG Fuels plant moves forward, PCDC will provide ongoing updates and information regarding this transformative project, emphasizing the global influence of local actions. The initiative not only supports the local economy but also contributes to a sustainable future, proving that Nebraska is at the forefront of innovation in the bioeconomy.