Greenbrier Valley Issued BDO Zone 'AA' Rating for Woody Biomass
GREENBRIER VALLEY, WEST VIRGINIA ISSUED BDO ZONE ‘AA’ RATING FOR WOODY BIOMASS
– ‘AA’ Rating to Unlock Underutilized Feedstock and Ignite Biobased Investment –
August 1, 2023 – The Greenbrier Valley Economic Development Corporation and the BDO Zone Initiative are pleased to announce the issue of a ‘AA’ rated BDO Zone designation for Greenbrier Valley, West Virginia for 850,000 green tons per year of woody biomass.
The Greenbrier Valley BDO Zone is rated ‘AA’, or very low risk, attributed to its consistent and abundant production of biomass, supported by a proficient and well-established forest industry that is keen on utilizing woody biomass. Additionally, the zone boasts four well-equipped business parks, making it an ideal location for industrial projects focused on biomass utilization. Situated within a 75-mile driving distance from the Town of Renick, WV, the zone yields an impressive annual output of 850,000 green tons of woody biomass.
“We are thrilled that this rating will help leverage some of our biggest assets – the existing sawmill, transportation, and forestry industries – into increased investment for economic growth of the region,” says Ruthana Beezley, Executive Director for the Greenbrier Valley EDC. “This data is vital in promoting sustainability, business attraction, and adding additional opportunities for our existing companies.”
The Greenbrier Valley BDO Zone has achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first in West Virginia to earn an ‘AA’ rating. This recognition positions the region as a frontrunner in the bio-based industry showcasing its leadership and potential for other communities across the state. The ‘AA’ rating underscores the zone’s significance and sets the stage for exciting progress and development, particularly, in the expansion of the forestry sector throughout the state.
Jordan Solomon, Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative added, “We extend our congratulations to Greenbrier Valley for achieving a well-deserved rating for woody biomass and infrastructure utilization. This accomplishment showcases Greenbrier Valley’s commitment to sustainability and forward-thinking initiatives that not only address environmental concerns but also pave the way for lucrative investment opportunities. With the ‘AA’ BDO Zone Rating, Greenbrier Valley solidifies its position as a prime destination for new biobased facilities.”
To see the full BDO Zone Rating for Greenbrier Valley, WV, please click here, or visit www.bdozone.org.
About The BDO Zone Initiative
The Biofuel Development Opportunity (BDO) Zone Initiative certifies ‘regional readiness’ for bio-manufacturing, creates global connections and ignites an influx of new energy opportunities for farmers, economic developers, and rural businesses. A BDO Zone rating is an internationally recognized, standards-based technical risk assessment of a region’s feedstock, supply chain, and infrastructure risk with respect to the development potential for new biofuel plants. BDO Zone ratings are site location bullseyes for bio-project development. Investment grade ratings are force-multipliers for attracting new manufacturing plants to the areas where they are most likely to succeed, drive investment and create jobs.
For more information on the BDO Zone Initiative, contact info@bdozone.org. To view all BDO Zone ratings, visit www.bdozone.org. Check out the BDO Zone LinkedIn page for news and updates.
Ecostrat is the North American leader in biomass due diligence for biofuels, renewable chemicals, biogas, and bio-product project development and finance. Jordan Solomon is Chairman of the BDO Zone Initiative and President of Ecostrat (www.ecostrat.com). He can be reached at jordan.solomon@ecostrat.com.
About Greenbrier Valley
The Greenbrier Valley is known for world-class resorts, outdoor recreation, and small-town charm. With extensive natural resources, proximity to major business and population centers, and a workforce that continues to believe in employer loyalty and a job well done, the Greenbrier Valley also offers an ideal setting for innovative companies.
West Virginia’s business climate is geared toward growth while continuing to offer some of the lowest costs of doing business. Greenbrier Valley’s regional transportation network includes Interstate 64, major highways, an airport with commercial service, and rail options. The region’s labor shed encompasses more than 282,000 people, many of whom grew up around timber production, mining, and other industries demanding a good day’s work. Education partners keep the region’s workforce strong by promoting skills in the areas employers need most while tailoring training for business needs – often at little or no cost.
The Greenbrier Valley, perched on West Virginia’s eastern border with Virginia, creates a supportive environment for growing businesses and a comfortable place for workers to call home.
About the Greenbrier Valley Economic Development Corporation
The Greenbrier Valley Economic Development Corporation is the local economic development authority for Pocahontas, Greenbrier and Monroe Counties in southeast West Virginia. The agency, formed in 1994 by state legislature, assists in business retention and expansion, supporting entrepreneurship and attracting outside business and talent investments to the region. The authority partners closely with local and state partners to ensure that businesses have access to the resources they need.
The Greenbrier Valley EDC is also a partner with communities and government to ensure adequate infrastructure and resources are available to support its residents while planning for smart growth. For more information about the Greenbrier Valley Economic Development Corporation, visit www.yesgreenbriervalley.com. The BDO Zone Local Development Leader (LDL) is Ruthana Beezley, Executive Director (rbeezley@gvedc.com).