Reduced-emission fertilizer plant to be built in Western Canada

Two companies have entered into an agreement for a conceptual design study for the development of a reduced-emission fertilizer to be located near Belle Plaine, Sask.

The proposed plant will be designed to utilize the latest production technology available for nitrogen fertilizer production, along with design options to reduced greenhouse gas emissions while exploring renewable-based hydrogen, electricity options, and carbon capture.

The plant will be designed to produce approximately 1,500 metric tonne per day (MTPD) of ammonia, with downstream production of urea, urea ammonium sulphate, and diesel exhaust fluid. The production of nitric acid and urea ammonium nitrate (UAN) is also being considered.

The conceptual design stage which will complete the design basis of the plant, including capacities, technology selection, product mixes, mass balance of inputs and outputs, block flow diagrams and carbon footprint optimization.

Genesis Fertilizers President and CEO Jason Mann said the product formulations the plant will produce are expected to streamline fertilizer handling in Canada, leading to a significant reduction in the overall carbon footprint associated with fertilizer production.

“Our primary goal is to build the most cost-efficient production and supply of nitrogen fertilizers to the farmers in Western Canada based on the most advanced technologies available, while considering the carbon impact,” Mann said. “This project signifies that the transition of the fertilizer industry to become more environmentally friendly has started.”

Genesis Fertilizers has partnered with thyssenkrupp Uhde, a company that has extensive experience and established expertise in all the processes and technologies needed to make the plant both successful and sustainable.

Genesis Fertilizers’ Vice-President of Business Development Terry Drabiuk said thyssenkrupp Uhde’s reputation in clean fertilizer technologies and their integration into plant design is essential to support customers in all parts of the supply chains as they work to protect the environment.