Biodiesel plant opens in Five Points

Biodico, a Ventura-based biofuel and bioenergy company, has opened its newest plant in west Fresno County.

The Biodico Westside plant in Five Points went online this week and will be able to produce up to 20 million gallons of biodiesel a year. The plant will create 45 jobs and help farmers process their orchard waste.

“Our new facility in the San Joaquin Valley produces economically and environmentally viable bio-based fuel and energy for local farmers and truckers, and creates new jobs in the community,” said Russ Teall, Biodico president and founder.

The company received $2.8 million in grants from the California Energy Commission to develop the biodiesel facility that operates entirely on its own renewable heat and power. The company also has been working closely with the U.S. Navy. The prototype for the Five Points facility was created at the naval base in Ventura County.

This story was originally published December 4, 2015 at 12:11 PM with the headline "Biodiesel plant opens in Five Points."