Energy and Environment

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GTL Americas hires contractor for $3.5 billion industrial project near Pine Bluff

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by George Jared (gjared@talkbusiness.net)

A company that intends to produce 1.7 million gallons of environmentally-friendlier motor fuel has selected a contractor to build a massive facility 13 miles north of Pine Bluff in Jefferson County. GTL Americas (GTLA) has entered into an agreement with Hyundai ENG America, Inc. (Hyundai), to start work on the design and construction of the facility which will sit on an 1,800-acre swath.

Construction on the project could begin within 18 months and the four-phase project could be completed sometime in 2029. The original price of the facility, which will employ 225 workers, was $3.5 billion, making it the largest industrial project in Arkansas’ history. Company officials believe the cost could grow in the coming years.

“Our vision is to create a center for excellence for GTL and, in turn, a sustainable economic driver for the state,” said Leon Codron, GTLA president. “This facility will make Arkansas our nation’s leading producer of ultra-clean, high-grade diesel, naphtha and, ultimately, jet fuel.”

https://talkbusiness.net/2023/09/gtl-americas-hires-contractor-for-3-5-billion-industrial-project-near-pine-bluff/

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State of the State Mid-Year 2023: Energy officials highlight positive outlook, price stability

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Lauren Waldrip, executive director of the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association

The Arkansas energy industry has many opportunities in which it can take advantage, including lowering costs and managing carbon emissions. Lauren Waldrip, executive director of the Arkansas Advanced Energy Association, is optimistic about the outlook.

“We’re seeing growth across the board, from an economic standpoint, from a demand standpoint, from a labor needs and development standpoint,” said Waldrip, noting the workforce in multiple sector segments, including energy efficiency, is expected to rise by 8% over the next year.

She expects federal resources available for energy efficiency projects to “bolster economic activity that will ultimately help Arkansans save money.”

https://talkbusiness.net/2023/08/state-of-the-state-mid-year-2023-energy-officials-highlight-positive-outlook-price-stability/