Laurel County, Kentucky has received an 'A' rating under the BDO Zone Initiative, certifying the region as a high-viability location for new biobased manufacturing investment on the basis of its woody biomass resources and supporting infrastructure.
The rating, issued jointly by the London Laurel County Economic Development Authority, Ecostrat and the BDO Zone Initiative, covers 342,000 bone dry tons per year of low-risk woody biomass within a 75-mile drive radius of London, Kentucky. It was funded through the Kentucky Energy and Environment Cabinet's Office of Energy Policy using State Energy Program funds under the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act.
An 'A' rating indicates low risk across feedstock supply and infrastructure, and is designed to give biobased project developers and investors confidence in the viability of a location ahead of committing capital.
In Laurel County's case, declining regional demand for pulpwood and certain sawmill residuals has left significant wood fibre underutilised, with pulpwood prices currently at historic lows — a combination the initiative says creates a clear opening for new processing facilities.
The region's case is further supported by a nearby development site within six miles of London's city centre, offering natural gas, three-phase power, high-speed internet and heavy industrial zoning.
Kentucky's mandated professional logger certification programme is also cited as underpinning a reliable and environmentally responsible supply chain.
Paula Thompson, executive director of the London Laurel County Economic Development Authority, said the rating highlighted the economic potential of the county's biomass resources and its ambition to attract bio-based manufacturing investment and create high-quality jobs.
Kenya Stump, executive director of the Kentucky Office of Energy Policy, said the rating aligned with the state's broader energy strategy. "Fuel diversification is a key pillar of Kentucky's Energy Strategy, and by supporting our existing forestry and agricultural sectors we can unlock new opportunities for rural economic development," she said.
Jordan Solomon, chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative, said the county's abundant woody biomass, reliable infrastructure and low-risk feedstock supply positioned it well to attract new biobased projects.
Kentucky county awarded top biomass feedstock rating to unlock underutilised wood fibre
