SunGas Renewables has started front-end engineering design (FEED) for its flagship biofuel project, Beaver Lake Renewable Energy. This milestone marks the final planning stage, focusing on detailed design and technology selection for a facility producing renewable, environmentally friendly methanol. The project, located in Rapides Parish, Louisiana, aims to significantly contribute to the domestic biofuels industry and sustainability goals.
Kiewit Engineering Group Inc. and Jacobs will undertake the FEED engineering, utilizing process technology packages for biogenic syngas and CO2 production from three S1000TM modules. Johnson Matthey will supply methanol synthesis technology and catalysts, supporting the biofuel conversion process. Linde Engineering will provide Acid Gas Removal technology through its Rectisol Wash Unit, essential for producing high-purity bio-methanol. Merichem Technologies’ sulfur recovery system will ensure environmentally compliant processing, integrating all components into the project design.
Kiewit, one of North America’s leading engineering firms, and Jacobs, a global consulting company with expertise in sustainable solutions, will collaborate closely to develop a comprehensive, ready-for-construction design. Robert Rigdon, SunGas’s President and CEO, emphasized that partnering with experienced firms is critical for delivering a successful biofuel project at this advanced stage.
The project is estimated to involve an investment exceeding $2 billion and is expected to generate over 1,150 construction jobs, along with 400-500 indirect positions. Once operational, the facility plans to produce over 500,000 metric tons of green methanol annually, serving sectors such as shipping, aviation, chemicals, and industry. Following FEED completion, construction is scheduled to start in the second half of 2026, advancing the U.S. biofuels industry.
