Hastings ethanol plant set for major efficiency upgrade through new partnership
Chief Ethanol is partnering with two companies to modernize its Hastings facility.
HASTINGS, Neb. — Chief Ethanol is partnering with Fluid Quip Technologies and Whitefox Technologies to modernize its ethanol facility in Hastings, aiming to cut energy and water use for long-term efficiency.
Under the agreement, Fluid Quip Technologies will lead the engineering and construction work, installing low-energy distillation equipment. Whitefox Technologies will provide membrane-based technology as part of a broader upgrade to the plant’s distillation, dehydration and evaporation systems.
Company officials say the project brings multiple technologies together into one energy-efficient system. The improvements are expected to lower energy use and make the plant more reliable over the long term.
“This collaboration reflects our commitment to operational excellence and innovation,” said Wayne Garrett, general manager of Chief Ethanol, adding that the project positions the Hastings facility for the future of ethanol production.
Representatives said the partnership allows the companies to work together on a solution designed to improve efficiency and overall performance at ethanol plants.
Chief Ethanol said the initiative reinforces its focus on sustainability and competitiveness through strategic partnerships rather than traditional, standalone upgrades.