New Biofuel Facility Legislation in Wisconsin Expected to Create Jobs

The Forestry Revitalization Act, signed into law on April 2, facilitates a $1.5 billion biofuel facility in Hayward, Wisconsin, converting woody biomass into sustainable aviation fuel. The initiative includes up to $120 million in tax credits from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation.

Synthec Fuels must evaluate this offer against others, including one from Minnesota, with a facility opening anticipated by early 2031 if Wisconsin is chosen. The facility is expected to create 350 direct jobs and could stimulate an additional 2,000 jobs in the forestry sector across northern Wisconsin.

The act mandates that 80% of wood used must originate from Wisconsin, potentially enhancing the economic viability of currently unmarketable tree species. The facility is projected to process approximately 880,000 tons of forest products annually, addressing the decline in the logging industry caused by recent paper mill closures in the state. This development reflects a growing demand for biofuels, particularly driven by European Union regulations requiring a significant increase in sustainable aviation fuel usage by 2050.