Construction starts on R$1.25bn Soli3 biodiesel plant in Rio Grande do Sul

Summary

Construction has begun on the Soli3 biodiesel complex in Cruz Alta, in northwestern Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. The R$1.25 billion project is a joint venture of cooperatives Cotrijal, Cotripal and Cotrisal. Earthworks are ahead of schedule and civil construction is due to start within days, with production expected to begin in May 2028. The plant will initially process only soybeans, with equipment adaptable to canola after minor adjustments. Cruz Alta was chosen for the railway running through the town, which the article describes as the state's only operating stretch. The partners also envisage replicating or expanding the plant in future. No capacity figure is given in the article.