OWENSBORO GRAIN BIODIESEL LLC BIODIESEL PLANT - Biodiesel Refinery in Owensboro, Kentucky

OWENSBORO GRAIN BIODIESEL LLC BIODIESEL PLANT is a biodiesel refinery located at 1145 Ewing Rd in Owensboro, Daviess County, Kentucky. The facility is operational and processes grain feedstocks into biodiesel, a renewable alternative to petroleum diesel. Its location along the Ohio River provides access to barge transportation for feedstock and product distribution. The plant operates under the regulatory framework of the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), including the Clean Air Act (CAA) and Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) program. Biodiesel production involves transesterification, a chemical process that converts vegetable oils or animal fats into fatty acid methyl esters (FAME). The facility's NAICS codes (311223, 311224, 311225, 324110, 324199, 325199) indicate it engages in both oilseed processing and petroleum refining activities, suggesting integration with conventional refining. As a biodiesel producer, this plant contributes to the US renewable fuels mandate and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil diesel. Its operations support local agriculture by providing a market for grain crops and create employment in the Owensboro area. The facility's proximity to the Ohio River also positions it within a regional industrial corridor with access to major transportation networks.

The plant is situated in the Ohio River Valley, an area with significant industrial activity including coal-fired power plants and chemical manufacturing. Biodiesel production offers environmental benefits such as lower lifecycle carbon emissions and reduced particulate matter compared to petroleum diesel. However, the facility must manage potential risks including feedstock storage, chemical handling (methanol and catalysts), and wastewater treatment. Spill prevention and secondary containment are critical given the proximity to the Ohio River, a major drinking water source.