Syngenta, Plymouth Energy in Enogen® trait technology deal

Syngenta in North America announced it has signed a commercial agreement with Plymouth Energy of Merrill, Iowa to use grain featuring Enogen® trait technology in 2013.

Enogen trait technology eliminates the need to utilize liquid alpha amylase enzyme in dry grind ethanol production. By incorporating Enogen grain into its production process, an ethanol plant can realize dramatic improvements in ethanol production while reducing energy, gas and water usage.

"As profit margins in the industry continue to shrink, we’re always looking for ways to be more efficient,” said Eamonn Byrne, CEO of Plymouth Energy. “We believe Enogen grain can help us do that and ultimately boost our bottom line.”

Plymouth will begin using Enogen grain for the first time in the fall of 2013. Syngenta is currently working with the plant to contract with local growers to produce Enogen corn for the 2013 crop. Growers under contract will begin delivering the specialty grain after harvest.

Enogen grain production contracts require growers follow specific, yet simple stewardship protocols. In return, growers are paid a premium price for each bushel of Enogen grain delivered to the ethanol plant per the contract terms.

"Enogen corn adds tremendous value for both ethanol plants and their local communities,” said David Witherspoon, head of renewable fuels for Syngenta. "With Enogen corn, ethanol plants not only create greater profit potential for their business, but they help put money back in the growers’ pocket as well.”

The commercial agreement with Plymouth is the most recent in a series of agreements including trial agreements in August with and Golden Grain Energy of Jackson, Nebraska and Mason City, Iowa respectively.