Scotland’s First Biorefinery Moves Forward
In September 2020, construction of Scotland’s first biorefinery reached a major milestone with the arrival of six purpose-built, 130,000-litre fermentation vessels from the Netherlands.
After a six-month hiatus caused by COVID-19 restrictions, the Caledon Green project in Grangemouth is back on track, bringing Scotland’s ambition to build a low-carbon, green bioeconomy a step closer to reality.
The Caledon Green Plant
The Caledon Green Plant will serve as Celtic Renewables’ flagship demonstration facility, showcasing innovative process technology that transforms biological residues into sustainable resources.
This site will act as the springboard for global commercialisation of the company’s patented bioconversion processes.
About Celtic Renewables
Celtic Renewables is a pioneering Scottish biotechnology company, recognised as Europe’s Most Innovative Biotech SME.
The company combines advanced microbiology expertise with modern process engineering to produce high-value, low-carbon biochemicals and next-generation biofuels derived from biological waste and by-products.
.jpg)
Sustainability and Impact
Once operational, the new facility will process approximately 50,000 tonnes of residues each year from the Scottish whisky industry, one of the nation’s most valuable sectors.
By turning waste into renewable resources, the plant will add value, reduce emissions, and strengthen Scotland’s position as a leader in sustainable industrial innovation.
Sustainable Products and Everyday Impact
The Caledon Green facility will produce three high-value, sustainable biochemicals — acetone, butanol, and ethanol, along with a high-protein animal feed.
These biochemicals are essential to modern life, forming the building blocks for industries such as food production, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and hygiene products.
In addition, butanol offers a powerful opportunity as an advanced, sustainable biofuel, helping reduce reliance on fossil fuels and supporting the transition to a cleaner energy future.