Verbio has initiated commercial production of corn-based ethanol at its biorefinery facility in Nevada, Iowa. The plant, a subsidiary of the European biofuels and bioenergy producer Verbio SE, completed a comprehensive commissioning process over the past six months, culminating in the successful start of bioethanol production.
This milestone marks the completion of the second phase of the Nevada plant’s strategy in the US market. The biorefinery operates at full capacity, producing 60 million gallons of corn-based ethanol annually and 2.3 million MMbtu of renewable natural gas (RNG).
The start of ethanol production, alongside existing RNG operations since December 2021, represents a significant achievement for Verbio. Bioenergy plays a crucial role in the transition towards sustainable mobility by providing RNG for transportation fuels and industrial uses.
The expanded production in Nevada has added new equipment, including eight fermentation tanks, a corn unloading facility, and silo storage, as well as nearly 50 full-time jobs. Verbio collaborates with local growers to secure feedstock for RNG and ethanol production. By purchasing agricultural residues and corn from local farmers, Verbio aims to provide additional revenue streams and bring value to the region.
The company’s sustainable production cycle enables the sale of high-quality co-products from its operations, including humus, two different soil amendments, and corn oil.
Verbio’s Nevada plant is the first industrial-scale facility in North America to combine RNG and bioethanol production. The innovative biorefinery concept enables the conversion of corn stover to RNG since 2021. By expanding operations to incorporate both bioethanol and associated biomethane production from corn stillage, Verbio has elevated its operations to the next level.
