Biodiesel NZ cuts back expansion plan

Solid Energy New Zealand Ltd.’s subsidiary Biodiesel New Zealand is reconsidering its plans to ramp up production of oilseed rape-based fuel, although it is offering a growing contract for 2009 to 2010 nonetheless. Biodiesel New Zealand’s capacity at its Christchurch plant in south New Zealand will be increased to four million liters per year to process the 2008 to 2009 crop but, in recognition of current economic conditions, the planned next step to build an additional 15 million liter per year plant at a new location, probably in Rolleston, Canterbury in south New Zealand, has been placed under review. (March 5, 2009)