The Missouri Department of Economic Development (DED) announced BioStar Systems has selected Pettis County as the location of its new biogas production facility. DED officials joined company leadership and local economic development partners in Sedalia this morning to celebrate the 23 new jobs created by BioStar’s $60 million capital investment in the company’s newest facility.
“BioStar’s decision to invest in Pettis County exemplifies Missouri’s unique strengths in both the manufacturing and energy solutions industries,” said Mike Downing, director of the Missouri Department of Economic Development. “I’m proud that the state’s superior workforce and business-friendly environment continues to create opportunities for forward-thinking companies like BioStar to grow and succeed in the Show-Me State.”
BioStar Systems is a waste-to-energy company focused on agricultural manure. The company utilizes anaerobic digestion to convert manure into biogas and organic fertilizers. The company is headquartered in Leawood, Kan., and operates several fuel production centers across the U.S. The Pettis County facility will partner with local poultry farm, Rose Acres, to produce a new regional source for renewable energy.
“BioStar is excited to open our new company in Pettis County,” said Bill Love, co-owner and Chief Executive Officer of BioStar Systems. “We found Missouri’s business-friendly environment and the cooperation of local and state partners to be second to none. With our raw material source nearby at Rose Acres, we will enjoy a great atmosphere for our company.”
“We are elated to have this announcement of a new company decide on Pettis County,” said Economic Development Board President Rusty Kahrs. “We have been working with BioStar for many years. Our enhanced enterprise zone and the state’s incentive program were some of the key decision makers for this company to be able to bring this to fruition.”
“BioStar is a tremendous addition to the community of Pettis County,” said Presiding Commissioner John Meehan. “Our manufacturing family is now joined by another great company that adds to our diversification as a county.”
In 2010, the Governor’s Strategic Initiative for Economic Growth identified “Energy Solutions” as one of seven target industries with the highest potential for creating jobs and spurring economic growth. Last year, in recognition of energy’s unique and growing importance to the state’s economy, Gov. Nixon issued an executive order realigning the Division of Energy from the Department of Natural Resources to the Department of Economic Development, which the General Assembly approved. This spring, Gov. Nixon announced that the Division of Energy will lead a statewide initiative to develop a comprehensive energy plan for the state that will chart a course towards a more sustainable and prosperous energy future.
To assist BioStar Systems with its expansion in Pettis County, the Missouri Department of Economic Development has offered a strategic incentive package that the company can receive if it meets strict job creation and investment criteria. Economic Development Sedalia – Pettis County also partnered with BioStar Systems to help make its expansion possible.