PASSO FUNDO, BRAZIL — Be8, a Brazilian renewable energy company, said it has entered into an agreement with Praj, an Indian company and global leader in bio-energy, to establish its first ethanol plant in Passo Fundo, Rio Grande do Sul.

The plant, which will convert wheat into ethanol, will be the first large-scale refinery in Rio Grande do Sul producing biofuel with grain. The facility, which will have an annual production capacity of 220 million liters, is expected to be operational in 2026 and involves an investment of approximately R$1 billion ($183 million). It will produce 155,000 tonnes per year of distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) for use as animal feed, as well 35,000 tonnes per year of vital gluten, a protein food product, Be8 said.  

Praj, one of India’s leading companies in bio-based technologies, engineering and modularized solutions, said its facilities are distinguished by its energy efficiency, capable of guaranteeing a quality product at the lowest operating cost and with experience in grain-based ethanol production.

“This is another very consistent step to guarantee Brazil an innovative investment with the best international know-how for the production of cereal-based ethanol,” said Erasmo Carlos Battistella, president of Be8. “I am very pleased to establish this partnership with Praj and its entire team of experts who, together with Be8 professionals, will reinforce the country’s position as a protagonist in the energy transition.”