Afyren Neoxy has opened its first large-scale biorefinery at Carling Saint-Avold in north-eastern France on time and within budget. Construction began in December 2020 and commissioning took place in June.

The plant uses fermentation technology based on natural microorganisms, followed by extraction and purification steps to make seven 100% biobased organic acids from sugar beet. This is sourced in the immediate region, where it is a common crop.

Oslo-based biotech Circa Group has signed an agreement with French energy producer GazelEnergie. Under this, it will repurpose the former Emile Huchet coal-fired power station site, adjacent to the Carling Saint-Avold platform in north-eastern France, to make its Cyrene brand of renewable solvent at commercial scale.