Haffner Energy has entered its first US project after being chosen to support a new biomethanol facility in California.
Project developer OroCarbo has selected two of the company’s SYNOCA 20 MW biomass-to-syngas modules for integration into a plant designed to produce 100 tonnes/day of biomethanol.
The project will use local forestry residues from wildfire-prevention work, along with agricultural waste from the surrounding Central Valley orchards, to supply the feedstock needed for continuous methanol output. Maverick Synfuels’ syngas-to-methanol technology will be installed alongside Haffner’s units as part of a single, integrated production system.
The first step in the collaboration is an independently conducted Carbon Intensity study, which will be carried out by AmSpec. The study will determine the project’s CI score, a key requirement for participation in California’s low-carbon fuels market.
Haffner Energy said renewable methanol is becoming a competitive option for decarbonising both the maritime and chemical sectors. OroCarbo added that methanol emerged as the most practical and cost-effective pathway for using the region’s biomass resources.
Maverick Synfuels said it was pleased to join the partnership and highlighted the quality of syngas produced by Haffner’s technology.
The biomethanol produced is expected to be used mainly for marine fuel, and the plant is planned for commissioning in early 2028.
