Drivers traveling along Highway 30 often spot Chevron’s facility, but few know what happens behind the gates. At the Geismar facility, Chevron converts everyday waste into high-quality renewable fuel. Plant Manager Zach Leath recently shed light on how this local plant creates a global environmental impact while boosting the local economy.
Turning Kitchen Waste into High-Performance Diesel
The Geismar refinery produces renewable diesel, renewable propane, and renewable naphtha using discarded organic materials. Instead of letting used cooking oil, drain grease, seed oils, and animal fats go to landfills, Chevron converts them into clean-burning fuel.
This fuel acts as a drop-in replacement for traditional diesel. Because it is molecularly identical to petroleum-based diesel, drivers can use it in standard engines without any modifications.
Expanding Operations and Local Economic Impact
Chevron recently completed a massive expansion at the Geismar plant. Output expanded from 90 million gallons to an impressive 340 million gallons of renewable diesel annually.
This growth brings significant economic benefits to Ascension Parish:
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Job Creation: The plant added over 90 new permanent jobs, bringing the total workforce to roughly 350 employees.
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Construction Support: During the expansion, more than 1,500 workers contributed on-site.
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Community Partnerships: The facility supports local businesses, local print shops, food banks, and educational programs like River Parishes Community College.
Driving Environmental Progress
The environmental impact of this local facility extends far beyond Ascension Parish. The plant’s annual production reduces carbon emissions significantly. Utilizing Geismar’s annual fuel output equates to removing every passenger vehicle in the United States from the road for two full days. Chevron continues to invest in Ascension Parish, proving that local innovation can drive major environmental progress.