Epitome Energy, a North American soybean processor, is moving forward with its plan to build a new US$418 million soybean crushing plant in Grand Forks, North Dakota. Similarly, construction is scheduled to begin early next year, which would address the region's limited processing options. Additionally, it would improve markets for local farmers and provide a reliable supply of soy products to fuel producers, food companies and other agribusinesses, as stated by Epitome Energy.
The current situation in the region is such that many farmers in the Red River Valley have to travel more than 160 km to find the nearest facility capable of processing their crop. However, the region's soybeans often have lower prices compared to the rest of the country. Therefore, farmers face high transportation costs, limiting their markets. The company highlighted this problem on its website.
Therefore, the construction of the new crushing plant soy represents an important initiative to mitigate these challenges and strengthen the local economy.
Crushing Plant Details
“Our planned crushing plant in Grand Forks is expected to strengthen the soybean base by 20-25 cents/bushel and process up to 42 million bushels/year.”
The plant was expected to produce more than 940,000 tons/year of soybean meal, 60 million gallons/year (227 million liters) of degummed crude soybean oil, and 84,000 tons/year of soybean hulls.
“Epitome is a producer of various raw soy products. Its soybean processing plant will meet the growing demand for renewable diesel fuel, biodiesel fuel, soybean oil, meal and livestock feed.” Promoted the company.
North American green energy developer Fagen designed and conceived the factory. Oilseed extraction technology company Crown Iron Works designed and built the processing equipment. The factory was expected to come into operation at the end of 2025.
Source: Oils & Fats International