U.S. Pipe to use renewable energy for plant processes

RP news wires, Noria Corporation
Tags: energy management
Intrinergy, a provider of alternative fuels to industrial customers, and U.S. Pipe and Foundry Company announced November 10 that Intrinergy will provide clean, renewable synthesis gas to U.S. Pipe for use at its Bessemer, Ala., and North Birmingham, Ala., plants.

Under a long-term energy supply agreement, Intrinergy will build, own and operate a state-of-the-art gasification unit at each of the two U.S. Pipe sites to convert into a gas such products as wood waste and shredded plastic automotive parts that would otherwise be buried in landfills. To supply the feedstock, Intrinergy will build, own and operate a materials processing facility at a separate location.

The Intrinergy facilities in Bessemer and North Birmingham are expected to reduce U.S. Pipe's use of fossil fuels and the company's exposure to volatile natural gas prices and supplies.

The Jefferson County Economic and Industrial Development Authority has unanimously authorized an agreement with Intrinergy for the issuance and sale of $25 million to $35 million in limited obligation bonds within the next year.

John Keppler, chief executive officer of Intrinergy, said, "This project will bring substantial benefits to U.S. Pipe. In addition, this project springboards Alabama to the fore in using proven technology to help reduce the environmental problems associated with burying waste in landfills. U.S. Pipe is a regional leader and a national model in this regard."

Keppler said that depending on permitting, Intrinergy expects to break ground in the second quarter of 2007 and to begin commercial operations in the fourth quarter of 2007. He added the project will create approximately 15 jobs at the gasification units and approximately 15 jobs at the materials processing site.

"U.S. Pipe is proud to support innovative technology with equipment that is made in America," said Ray Torok, president of U.S. Pipe.