By Andi Anderson
The Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a $1.559 billion loan commitment toward the $2.4 billion Wabash Valley Resources (WVR) project, marking one of the largest investments in domestic fertilizer production.
This initiative aims to bolster American agriculture, improve air quality, and reduce dependency on imported ammonia.
WVR’s innovative approach combines industrial waste utilization with carbon capture, potentially making it the United States’ first carbon-negative ammonia production process.
By producing low-carbon anhydrous ammonia domestically, WVR will help secure the fertilizer supply chain in the Eastern Corn Belt, supporting low-carbon corn and ethanol production. This opens new market opportunities for American farmers who value green attributes.
Beyond agriculture, the project will help revitalize a coal community impacted by the decline of coal-related industries.
The investment is expected to create over 1,100 direct and indirect jobs, including at least 500 union construction jobs. WVR’s commitment to a unionized workforce continues through the National Maintenance Agreement, supporting skilled tradespeople in the region.
WVR’s project is backed by several key partners. Climate Investment, a decarbonization investor founded by leading energy companies, was an early supporter of WVR’s carbon capture initiatives.
Energy technology leader Baker Hughes aids WVR’s geological sequestration efforts, supplying advanced equipment. Honeywell’s cryogenic gas separation technology played a vital role in designing WVR’s carbon capture process, while Samsung E&A America supports the overall facility design.
WVR’s Chief Operating Officer, Dan Williams, highlighted the nearly decade-long development phase made possible through the DOE, building trades unions, and strategic partners. “WVR is excited to lead a new industrial era that brings environmental, social, and economic benefits,” said Williams.
The project has been praised by industry leaders, including Kenneth Cooper of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, who emphasized the job creation and environmental benefits, and Don Villwock, former president of the Indiana Farm Bureau, who noted the positive impact on Hoosier farmers.
Former State Senator Jon Ford also applauded the DOE’s investment as a step toward revitalizing a community hit hard by the decline of coal and addressing the carbon intensity of agriculture.
With this significant commitment, WVR is poised to make a lasting impact on American agriculture and coal communities, setting a new standard for sustainable fertilizer production.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-d-keine
Categories: Iowa, Business, Government & Policy