German biotechnology company Corden BioChem to restart production at bioethanol plant in Podari, Dolj County

Corden BioChem announced that it will invest “several tens of millions of euros” in the relaunch of the bioethanol plant in Podari, Dolj County. The plant was closed in December 2023 by its former owner, the Swiss company Clariant.

Corden BioChem plans to use the existing infrastructure for bioethanol production. The estimated initial production capacity is several tens of thousands of tons per year. At the same time, it will strengthen a team of local specialists, creating dozens of new jobs in the region.

In addition to bioethanol production, the existing infrastructure allows the use and expansion of technological capabilities for the introduction of other fermentation products. Thus, the development of high-value fermentation products, with applications in industries such as food, cosmetics, feed, food supplements and others, becomes possible. Additional investments related to the diversification of production are estimated at several tens of millions of euros, with the potential to generate over 100 specialized jobs.

After taking over the factory and relaunching production, Corden BioChem proposes a long-term vision for the biotechnology industry in Romania.

“This investment means more than relaunching a factory – it is about the team, about performance and about the development of a region that will become a key point in the green transition. It is the beginning of a new stage that will put Dolj on the European map of energy and biotechnology. Together we will create a successful example of innovation, stable jobs and the valorisation of local resources. We start here, in Podari, but the impact will be national. The resumption of bioethanol production is the first step in a firm commitment to sustainability and the community.” – stated Dr. Klaus Pellengahr, Managing Director of Corden BioChem.