The global ethanol industry is witnessing a boom and the trend will likely persist in the coming years. This is mainly due to growing environmental concerns, rising demand for sustainable fuels, and innovation in production technologies.
Companies are constantly working on making the ethanol production process more efficient, sustainable, and cost-effective. They are introducing new engineered microorganisms and employing advanced production technologies. Many companies are also using tactics like partnerships and acquisitions to stay ahead of the competition.
In February 2025, Cargill Inc. completed the acquisition of SJC Bionergia by purchasing the remaining 50% stake in the company. This strategic move is aimed at strengthening Cargill’s position in the renewable energy sector as well as expanding its presence in Brazil. Through this acquisition, Cargill will increase its ethanol production capacity and meet growing end user demands.
In January 2025, RCM Technologies launched its innovative New Ethanol eXpansion Technology (NEXT) program. It is believed to be the next big thing in sustainable fuel production. NEXT is designed to revolutionize ethanol plant expansion projects by improving production capacity and energy efficiency without the need for costly and time-consuming major equipment replacement.
In August 2024, Be8 started construction of its new ethanol plant in Brazil. The new facility will be used to produce biofuel from cereals, including triticale and wheat. It is scheduled to commence operation in 2026 and will help the company to meet growing demand for ethanol from various industries.
The engineering designs and process licensing of Be8’s new plant have been given to Praj, a prominent India-based company that specializes in bio-based technologies and cereal-based ethanol production. An investment of R$ 729.7 million has been approved by the National Bank for Economic and Social Development (BNDES) for the construction of new ethanol factory.
Apart from ethanol, the new plant will also produce vital gluten and bran. Thus, it will help the company to meet the demands in food and clean energy sectors.
In September 2024, Novonesis launched Innova Yeast for the ethanol production industry. It is the company’s most advanced yeast innovation for ethanol production. Innova Yeast is engineered to break through fermentation barriers and withstand fermentation stressors. It has the tendency to help ethanol producers to achieve more complete fermentations, improve efficiency, and reduce costs.
These recent developments are expected to play a key role in meeting the global demand for biofuels like ethanol. They will also positively impact growth in the global ethanol industry by enhancing production efficiency, reducing costs, and promoting sustainability.
Cargill’s acquisition of SJC Bionergia will help the company increase its ethanol production capacity and make ethanol more popular than methanol and other alcohols. RCM’s NEXT will help the ethanol industry to move towards sustainable production. Similarly, Be8 new ethanol plant in Brazil will empower the company to meet local as well as global biofuel demand.
Sources:
Company: Cargill Inc., RCM Technologies, Be8
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