Viridis Chemical Relocates Renewable Ethyl Acetate Plant to Peoria

Viridis Chemical has announced the relocation of its renewable chemicals plant from Columbus, Nebraska to Peoria, Illinois. This strategic move will co-locate Viridis’ facility with BioUrja Renewables’ high-purity alcohol plant in Peoria. The plant will use BioUrja’s corn-based industrial alcohol to produce renewable ethyl acetate, an important chemical used in many industrial processes that is traditionally derived from fossil fuels.

Viridis Chemical is a developer of bio-based, low-carbon chemical technologies and a recipient of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s 2024 Green Chemistry Challenge Award.

The relocation of Viridis’ ethyl acetate plant strengthens the company’s position as a renewable chemicals supplier and increases its ability to meet changing market demands through improved logistics and operational resiliency. The relocation is expected to be completed by the end of 2025.

The new Peoria facility is located on the Illinois River, providing key logistical advantages. In addition to its proximity to BioUrja, the location includes access to all major rail and barge routes along the Mississippi River. The facility’s proximity to Viridis’ core ethyl acetate customers in the Midwest and Northeast, combined with its superior logistics and warehousing capabilities, will enable Viridis to improve operational efficiencies and customer service.

“We believe this move provides Viridis with the right location and logistics to remain competitive over the long term,” said Patrick Killian, Viridis CEO. “It is also an excellent foundation for growth in other products in our pipeline – allowing us to better serve our customers and expand into new markets.”

Amit Bhandari, Founder of BioUrja Group, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, saying, “We are building an unparalleled hub for high-purity industrial and beverage-grade alcohols, carbon capture, renewable energy, fuels, and renewable chemicals in Peoria. Viridis Chemical is exactly the partner we have been looking for, and we are very excited to have them join our facility!”

“We are very pleased to support the Viridis management team in this strategic relocation. We continue to believe strongly in the business model of bringing renewable solvents and intermediates to markets seeking better, more sustainable solutions.” We believe the investment in the plant relocation will accelerate and support this strategy," said Patti Melcher, founding partner of EIV Capital.