Montpelier--Lt. Governor Brian Dubie greeted with enthusiasm today’s announcement that two Canadian firms plan to locate a new biodiesel fuel production facility in Swanton.

Governor Jim Douglas and officials from Biocardel Vermont, Inc. announced Thursday that the firm has tentatively agreed to construct a biodiesel processing plant in Vermont, after being granted tax incentives earlier in the day.

“When I first articulated the Green Valley concept in early 2004, this is exactly what I had in mind,” said Dubie. “Our state is recognized around the world for its environmental ethic. We are recognized as leaders in environmental stewardship. By building on the strength of our reputation and our values, we are teaching Vermont’s youth and empowering new enterprises to develop, teach and market cutting-edge, real-world answers to the world’s environmental challenges, and to do it here in Vermont.”

Biodiesel is cleaner-burning than conventional diesel fuel. It is made from natural, renewable sources such as vegetable oils, and can be used in motor vehicles and for home heating.

Biocardel Vermont projects it will produce and market up to 4 million gallons of biodiesel fuel annually at first. Within three years, they estimate production will climb to 8 million gallons annually. It is believed that the plant would be the largest of its kind in New England, and one of only 65 commercial biodiesel plants in the United States.

Dubie says, “Vermonters are highly-motivated to make a difference in this world, and producing biodiesel will help. We can reduce our region’s dependence on foreign oil, we can reduce air pollution, and we can enhance our energy security. That’s why I’m so excited that Biocardel Vermont has chosen Swanton as its new home.”

Vermont Commerce Secretary Kevin Dorn said of the Biocardel announcement, “This is the Green Valley concept in action. Vermont is has focused on attracting companies that specialize in environmental technologies, processes, goods and services, and the good jobs they bring.”