College Group, the bio-waste specialists, has announced plans for a new 25 million-litre purpose–built plant that will be set on a 47.5-acre site and will be the first of its type in Europe. The company will produce biofuel from used cooking oil and animal fats.

College Group currently operates two plants at Monery, Co Cavan, and Nobber, Co Meath. College Group has invested five years of research and development in developing new methods for the production process of biofuel, some of which are being used for the first time in the industry.

Speaking at the sod–turning event, Minister Heather Humphreys said: “Supporting job creation in the region is a priority for the Government and the investment in this new biofuel facility, producing a higher-grade biodiesel product, is a hugely positive development for Nobber and the surrounding area.”

College Group chief executive John Gilroy said that the plant will assist Ireland in reducing its carbon emissions and meeting its EU targets for 2020. In Ireland in 2017, 226 million litres of renewable fuel were used, but Ireland only produced about 22 million litres. Two-hundred-and-forty million litres will be required to fulfil Ireland’s obligation for the 2020 deadline, highlighting the significant shortfall in biofuel production that exists in Ireland.

Job opportunities

Ninety jobs will be created during construction and commissioning of the plant, with 25 long–term job opportunities for graduates in chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, health and safety and environmental, as well as administration and financial roles. College Group believes that 50 indirect long–term jobs will be created in transport, support services and additional spin–off for the local community.

“This is an opportunity for highly skilled people from local and surrounding areas to find employment close to home in their rural communities,” said Gilroy.

The company upholds an ethos of employing local people and giving back to the community. It iscurrently the main sponsors of many GAA clubs and educational initiatives in the Meath area.