Clean Energy Fuels starts construction on massive renewable natural gas facility in Texas

Clean Energy Fuels Corp., a leading provider of clean transportation fuels, has officially launched construction on a groundbreaking renewable natural gas (RNG) production facility at South Fork Dairy in Dimmitt, Texas. This major investment marks a significant step in the company’s mission to expand its network of sustainable energy solutions. The new facility, set to be one of the largest RNG production sites in the United States, will convert organic waste from a large dairy operation into ultra-clean transportation fuel.

A Major Investment in Renewable Energy

The South Fork Dairy facility, which will be built at an estimated cost of $85 million, is poised to become a key player in the renewable natural gas sector. The facility is expected to produce approximately 2.6 million gallons of RNG annually once completed in 2025. RNG, a transportation fuel derived from organic waste, is known for its negative carbon-intensity score, making it a highly effective solution for reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

The RNG produced at South Fork Dairy will be integrated into Clean Energy’s extensive network of fueling stations across the United States, providing a cleaner alternative to traditional fossil fuels. This initiative underscores Clean Energy Fuels Corp.’s commitment to advancing sustainable transportation solutions and mitigating environmental impact.

Key Figures in the Project

Clay Corbus, Senior Vice President of Renewables at Clean Energy Fuels Corp., expressed enthusiasm about the project, highlighting its dual benefits. Corbus noted that the construction of anaerobic digesters at South Fork Dairy will enable the dairy owner, Frank Brand, to efficiently manage and monetize large quantities of manure waste. In addition to its economic benefits, the project will contribute to significant environmental credits through RNG production.

Frank Brand, the owner of South Fork Dairy, shared his excitement about the facility, emphasizing its potential to transform waste management and reduce the dairy’s environmental footprint. Brand highlighted that the project will not only provide a sustainable fuel source but also set an example for other dairy farms looking to adopt environmentally friendly practices.

The Environmental Impact

Agriculture is responsible for nearly 10 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. By capturing methane from agricultural waste, RNG production significantly lowers these emissions. RNG, made entirely from organic waste, can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 300% compared to diesel fuels. It has been recognized for its exceptional cleanliness, with the California Air Resources Board assigning it an average carbon-intensity score of -330. This score is notably lower than the emissions from electric vehicles charged with electricity from the current grid.

Clean Energy Fuels Corp. continues to lead the charge in the clean fuel market with its extensive network of fueling stations and RNG production facilities. The company remains dedicated to decarbonizing transportation and providing sustainable energy solutions that contribute to a cleaner environment.