BTS Biogas, Bioenergy Devco join forces on US AD projects

Italian firm BTS Biogas is expanding into the US, launching newly-formed subsidiary BTS North America (BTS NA).

BTS NA will serve as the official technology provider to Bioenergy Devco (BDC). Together, the companies will facilitate the finance, design, engineering, construction, and operation of sustainable, resilient anaerobic digestion (AD) projects across the US.

BTS NA and BDC are currently in the process of developing two anaerobic digesters. One in Jessup, Maryland recently started construction.

BTS NA will be headquartered in Annapolis, Maryland, and will be overseen by managing director Christine McKiernan. While the headquarters will be unoccupied until public health concerns surrounding COVID-19 subside, the space is expected to host employees by the end of the year.

“We are incredibly proud to bring the BTS Biogas team to the US,” said Franco Lusuriello, CEO. “The US mid-Atlantic region has been an important incubator for innovative, utility-grade AD technology.

“As the technology provider for BDC’s flagship facilities in Maryland and Delaware, we will continue our critical work of delivering innovative solutions that advance both clean energy and zero waste agendas for the country’s food industry, municipalities, and waste management system.

“We look forward to working hand-in-hand with BDC as it extends its reach throughout the US to meet the growing demand for carbon-negative renewable energy for local homeowners and businesses.”

McKiernan, who has more than 30 years of experience in the renewable energy and AD industries, will manage the subsidiary’s operations and oversee services provided to BDC’s Maryland Food Centre facility and Bioenergy Innovation Centre, including EPC contracting, as well as technology and maintenance. Before joining BTS NA, McKiernan led project development efforts around organics recovery facilities in the US for Suez North America.

Shawn Kreloff, CEO of BDC, said: “BTS Biogas’ longstanding experience pairs well with McKiernan’s extraordinary talents in optimising sustainable AD technology. BTS NA, working together with BDC, is proving invaluable to our ongoing construction of large-scale AD operations here in the US.

“With several utility-grade facilities in development and a robust pipeline of projects across the country, the combination of both companies reflects the extraordinary demand, growth, and momentum for combined renewable energy and organics recycling solutions. These solutions could help combat the climate crisis, facilitate sustainable agriculture, and reduce our reliance on fossil fuels.”