
The first of three Pilgrim’s Pride renewable natural gas (RNG) projects is officially complete thanks to the producer’s partnership with GreenGasUSA.
The partners unveiled the completed project during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Pilgrim’s poultry processing facility in Sumter, South Carolina. Attendees included local community members and representatives from Governor Henry McMaster’s and U.S. Representative Ralph Norman’s offices, according to a company press release.
“Pilgrim’s is committed to embedding sustainability in our business,” said Fabio Sandri, CEO, Pilgrim’s. “Our partnership with GreenGasUSA in Sumter is a prime example of how Pilgrim’s can implement innovative solutions to reduce our greenhouse gas (GHG) footprint and unlock value for our business. Given these efforts, we can strengthen America’s food supply and create a better future for our communities where we operate.”
Sumter’s renewable natural gas project
Using Pilgrim’s existing methane capture capabilities, the RNG project will collect biogas from the facility’s wastewater and convert it into pipeline quality RNG, which the company expects to start entering the natural gas pipeline by the end of the month.
The creation of RNG from waste will reduce the Sumter facility’s GHG emissions, help cut back on the use of fossil fuels and improve local air and water quality.
“This project represents another significant win for South Carolina agriculture and industry and our environment. It is a demonstration of industries coming together and leading our collective journey into a lower carbon future while creating economic and environmental benefits for our communities,” said Marc Fetten, CEO and founder, GreenGasUSA. “The renewable energy produced at this project is enough to power the homes of half of the entire workforce working at the Pilgrim’s Sumter plant, and is produced from what, until recently, was simply a waste stream.”
Pilgrim’s expects its two remaining RNG projects – located at JBS facilities in Grand Island, Nebraska, and Hyrum, Utah – to be completed by the end of 2025.