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GPC’s Conversion to Natural Gas is Complete

Grain Processing Corporation (GPC) today announced it is now using natural gas as the company’s sole fuel source for the boilers at the Muscatine wet milling facility. This extraordinary conversion from coal is the latest in GPC’s environmental sustainability efforts for reducing emissions in 2015.

“Cleaner air is a commitment GPC made to the Muscatine community. With dedication and hard work, we are able to achieve our promise. Replacing coal with natural gas as a fuel source will substantially reduce levels of sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, nitrous oxide and lead,” said Mick Durham, director of environmental services for GPC.

According to Durham, using natural gas is projected to provide a 91 percent reduction in GPC boiler emissions. Included is a projected reduction of carbon monoxide by 61 percent, nitrous oxide reduced by 22 percent, particulate matter reduced by 91 percent, sulfur dioxide (SO2) reduced by 99.9 percent and lead will be reduced by 97 percent.

“We have worked diligently and steadily to lower emissions through a number of projects and processes at GPC,” said Janet Sichterman, GPC spokesperson. “In May, GPC announced that its new $83 million dryer house became fully operational. These two efforts for controlling emissions have put GPC well ahead of industry peers.”

While these projects are significant in scope and impact, GPC continues to identify ways to improve its impact on the environment.