Celtic Renewables & Project Willow: future growth plans in Grangemouth for low carbon chemicals

The Project Willow Report, released today, highlights key opportunities and technologies that could position Grangemouth as a low carbon manufacturing hub. Following an evaluation of over 300 technologies, the report identified nine projects with the potential to protect the future of Grangemouth, transitioning to low carbon alternatives across waste, bio-feedstocks, and offshore wind.

Backed by £25m from the Scottish Government and £200m from the UK Government, the plans aim to secure the future of Grangemouth’s industrial sector and support jobs and economic growth.

Among the projects identified is the ABE fermentation process, that converts by-products and waste from industries such as food, drink, and agriculture into bio acetone, bio butanol, and bio ethanol (ABE), key components in low-carbon chemical production.

To mark the release of the report, First Minister John Swinney visited Celtic Renewables’ biorefinery in Grangemouth.

As part of the official government press release, First Minister, John Swinney stated:
“This report sets out a wide range of viable alternatives for the refinery site, demonstrating that a long-term, new industrial future at Grangemouth is achievable. We will continue to work closely with the UK Government to realise these opportunities, and Scottish Enterprise stands ready to support inward investors looking to progress any of these technologies.” (Source: UK and Scottish Government press release).

Celtic Renewables’ Grangemouth biorefinery, proven at both industrial and commercial scale, is well positioned to contribute to Grangemouth’s transition. The Project Willow Report recommends government policies to accelerate the shift toward low carbon chemicals, highlighting the need for strategic action.

Mark Simmers, CEO of Celtic Renewables, commented: “Our biorefinery is a fitting location for the launch of the Project Willow Report. It demonstrates the transition to a low-carbon future, producing green chemicals from by-products and waste. We have an opportunity to scale this process in Grangemouth, driving economic growth and creating jobs.”