Miamisburg / Ohio – NewPage Corporation, largest coated paper manufacturer in North America, has announced its decision to discontinue work on the biofuels gasification project at the Escanaba, Michigan pulp and paper mill.

“While this type of new technology is exciting to consider, unfortunately the escalating cost of the installation of the Chemrec process and the substantial investment required to modify our existing operations precludes us from proceeding with this project,” said Rick Willett, president and chief executive officer for NewPage.

“Unlike Europe, the demand for methanol and dimethyl ether as transportation fuels has not developed in North America. The lack of demand for these products in our country doesn't support the feasibility of the project. To be a viable project, the costs for the installation would need to be much lower and the current market prices for methanol and dimethyl ether would need to improve as well,” added Willett.

The plan, which would produce methanol and dimethyl ether from the gasification of kraft pulp black liquor, was announced in August of 2007 in partnership with Chemrec AB of Sweden. Chemrec has proprietary technology and had approached the Michigan Economic Development Corporation (MEDC) looking for a United States partner. A three phase study was outlined at that time, with the ability for either company to opt out at the conclusion of each phase.

Throughout the timeframe of this endeavor, the NewPage team has worked closely with Chemrec officials, Senator Debbie Stabenow, Governor Jennifer Granholm and the MEDC , as well as numerous other state and local officials. “We appreciate the dedication, involvement and support from everyone who worked on this project,” commented Willett. “As biofuel gasification develops, United States energy policy evolves, and the economy improves, it is a possibility that NewPage could revisit the technology in the future.”

Chemrec has operated a pilot plant in Pitea, Sweden, for two years and recently announced a full scale production plant at another location in Sweden.

Quelle: NewPage Corporation

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