Enviva’s Cottondale plant incurs minor damage due to fire

Pellet producer Enviva has stated that its Florida-based Cottondale plant incurred minor damage due to a fire at the facility on 10 June, 2017. However, the company has also stated that operations have now resumed.

In a press statement, Enviva said the fire occurred in a conveyor belt on the morning of 10 June, causing minor damages. After a thorough inspection, the company said the plant returned to safe operations, at full capacity, by mid-afternoon.

An Enviva spokesman said: “Two employees were evaluated for smoke inhalation and have returned to work.

“There was no further disruption to operations and production capacity has not been impacted. The damaged conveyor belt has been repaired. We appreciate the efforts by the local fire departments and first responders who quickly controlled the incident and ensured the health of employees.”

Enviva’s Cottondale facility began production in April, 2008, and was acquired by Enviva Partners as part of the acquisition of Green Circle Bioenergy in January, 2015. The plant has a production capacity of 700k tonnes per year, manufactured from a mix of untreated raw wood, waste wood and residuals. Pellets produced at the Cottondale facility carry ENplus quality certification that indicates they are suitable for use by both industrial and residential customers.

The facility employs more than 100 people including technicians, engineers and operators. Pellets produced at this facility are exported from Port Panama City, Florida for international customers.