Argent Energy Unveils Technical-Grade, Bio-Based Glycerine for Chemical Industry

Argent Energy, a prominent European biofuels manufacturer, has officially inaugurated Europe’s largest facility for producing bio-based, technical-grade glycerine at its Port of Amsterdam location. This cutting-edge refinery will refine crude glycerine, a by-product of Argent’s waste-based biodiesel production, into 99.7% pure technical-grade glycerine. The facility is expected to generate 50,000 tons of bio-based glycerine, providing chemical producers with a sustainable alternative that offers significant environmental advantages over traditional options. Argent Energy’s bio-based glycerine is suitable for various technical applications, serving as a substitute for multiple petrochemicals and enabling industries to transition toward a circular economy while decreasing reliance on fossil fuel-derived feedstocks.

At the launch, CEO Louise Calviou expressed enthusiasm: “We are thrilled to officially launch the new glycerine refinery as part of our expansion at the Amsterdam biodiesel facility, which will create over 30 new jobs upon completion. Our entry into the chemical market reflects our aim to maximize product value and bolster the circular economy. By upgrading glycerine from our processes into a technical-grade product, we’re providing the chemical industry with a bio-based option they can confidently incorporate into their products.”

Esther Rommel, Provincial Executive Member for Spatial Development, Economy, Ports, and Recreation in North Holland, attended the event and noted, “The province of North Holland aims to be fully circular by 2050. I am proud of companies like Argent that invest in the port and contribute to the transition of raw materials. The province will support companies in their pursuit of circular entrepreneurship now and in the future.”

Roon van Maanen, Director of Energy and Circular Industry at the Port of Amsterdam, highlighted the significance of Argent Energy's sustainable initiative, stating, “The Port of Amsterdam is proud of this development. The opening of the glycerine plant is a major step toward a circular economy where by-products are upgraded into a new technical-grade product. This aligns perfectly with our strategy to be a leading European seaport focused on the transition to a sustainable society.”

The glycerine produced is derived from the biodiesel manufacturing process and is fully certified under the International Sustainability and Carbon Certification (ISCC), ensuring traceability and adherence to the highest sustainability standards. Argent Energy currently produces over 190,000 tons of waste-based biodiesel annually, supplying it to international markets for road transport, marine, and power generation. The company is also scaling up its operations and decarbonization initiatives, with plans to triple biofuel production at its Amsterdam site. The new glycerine refinery employs comprehensive distillation and polishing techniques to achieve a high-purity product, featuring dedicated tanks, pipelines, and loading bays to prevent cross-contamination.