GreenGasUSA and Pilgrim’s Pride launch renewable natural gas project in South Carolina

GreenGasUSA and Pilgrim’s Pride have announced a major renewable natural gas (RNG) initiative at Pilgrim’s poultry processing facility in Sumter, South Carolina. This groundbreaking project highlights the convergence of technology and sustainability, aiming to convert biogas from wastewater streams into pipeline-quality RNG. Representatives from state leadership, including Governor Henry McMaster’s office, celebrated this milestone, underscoring its importance to South Carolina’s renewable energy landscape.

The project is expected to begin injecting RNG into existing pipeline infrastructure by the end of the month. This collaboration represents a significant step in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, improving wastewater operations, and enhancing local environmental conditions.

How does GreenGasUSA contribute to renewable energy?

GreenGasUSA plays a pivotal role in advancing renewable energy through its innovative biogas solutions. The company specialises in capturing and upgrading biogas, anaerobic digestion, and pipeline injection. GreenGasUSA’s expertise extends to compressing, transporting, and injecting renewable products, such as RNG and carbon dioxide (CO2), into existing systems.

With six operational RNG facilities and one CO2 facility across the United States, GreenGasUSA has established itself as a leader in the renewable energy sector. Its strategic partnerships with sustainability-focused businesses further enhance its ability to deliver comprehensive renewable solutions.

This initiative is backed by the IFM Net Zero Infrastructure Fund (IFM NZIF), an investment fund managed by IFM Investors, which focuses on accelerating the global transition to net-zero emissions through essential infrastructure projects.

What makes the Sumter facility unique?

At Pilgrim’s Pride’s Sumter processing plant, GreenGasUSA is building on existing methane capture capabilities to create a state-of-the-art RNG production system. By upgrading biogas from wastewater streams, the facility transforms waste into a valuable energy source.

The RNG produced at this facility is expected to generate enough energy to power nearly all the homes of the plant’s workforce, showcasing the tangible benefits of converting waste into clean energy. Additionally, the initiative supports local environmental goals by reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air and water quality.

According to Marc Fetten, CEO of GreenGasUSA, “This project represents a significant win for South Carolina agriculture and industry. It highlights the potential for waste streams to become renewable energy sources, creating economic and environmental benefits for local communities.”

How does the partnership reflect Pilgrim’s Pride’s sustainability goals?

Pilgrim’s Pride, a global leader in protein processing, has consistently demonstrated a commitment to sustainability. The company processes and delivers fresh and value-added food products to over 100 countries, with operations spanning 14 U.S. states, Puerto Rico, Mexico, and Europe.

The Sumter RNG project aligns with Pilgrim’s broader sustainability objectives, as outlined by CEO Fabio Sandri. He explained, “Our partnership with GreenGasUSA in Sumter exemplifies Pilgrim’s focus on innovative solutions that reduce our greenhouse gas footprint while unlocking value for our business. This initiative strengthens America’s food supply and fosters a better future for the communities where we operate.”

Why is South Carolina a hub for renewable energy innovation?

South Carolina’s agricultural sector plays a central role in advancing renewable energy initiatives. Projects like the Sumter RNG collaboration showcase how traditional industries, such as farming and food processing, can adopt circular economy technologies to produce sustainable energy solutions.

South Carolina Commissioner of Agriculture Hugh Weathers praised the project, stating, “This collaboration enables participation from the agricultural sector in the circular economy. It demonstrates how expertise from traditional industries can be leveraged to produce high-quality renewable energy products.”

The state’s growing reputation as a hub for sustainable innovation is further cemented by partnerships like that between GreenGasUSA and Pilgrim’s Pride, which combine local resources and global expertise to create impactful renewable energy projects.

What is the future of GreenGasUSA and Pilgrim’s Pride’s partnership?

The Sumter facility is just the beginning of a broader strategic partnership between GreenGasUSA and Pilgrim’s parent company, JBS. The companies are actively developing additional RNG facilities across the U.S., aiming to replicate the success of the Sumter project.

By expanding their efforts, GreenGasUSA and Pilgrim’s Pride are setting a benchmark for how industries can work together to achieve sustainability goals. Their approach not only addresses environmental challenges but also creates economic value for communities and industries.

How does this project impact the renewable energy landscape?

The Sumter RNG project underscores the potential of circular economy technologies to revolutionise renewable energy. By turning waste streams into valuable resources, this initiative serves as a model for other industries aiming to reduce their environmental footprint.

As global demand for sustainable energy solutions grows, projects like this highlight the importance of collaboration between technology providers, industry leaders, and local governments. Together, these stakeholders are paving the way for a cleaner, more sustainable future.