Brazilian Odebrecht mulls ethane cracker in West Virginia

“Although we realize much work remains to be done, this announcement of a potential project is tremendous news for our state and our region. I appreciate the hard work of my team from the Development Office and the Ascent team members who have come together to explore this investment. I look forward to working closely with them to help bring the project to fruition,” Gov. Tomblin said.

Ascent’s feasibility will depend on several important variables, including the contracting of long-term ethane supply, as well as financing, regulatory approvals, and appropriate governmental support.

Odebrecht will lead Ascent’s investment and financing, as well as the operation of water and electric utilities. “Project Ascent fits within Odebrecht’s commitment to be a partner in development in the regions where we operate,” stated Fernando Reis, CEO of Odebrecht Environmental. “Moreover, Ascent fits into the strategy of our Utilities division, which seeks to invest and manage industrial assets.”

Braskem would be responsible for petrochemical-related activities as well as the commercialization of the polyethylene after the investment is completed. “As the United States’ leader in polypropylene production and with a significant footprint already in the region, we are excited about announcement,” stated Fernando Musa, CEO of Braskem America. “Should Ascent materialize we look forward to serving our clients in the polyethylene market.”

About Odebrecht: Founded in 1944, Odebrecht is a company of Brazilian origin with a global presence. Odebrecht is Latin America’s leader in engineering and construction, chemicals and petrochemicals, and also operates in the areas of bioenergy, water utilities, defense, real estate, oil & gas, shipbuilding, and transportation and logistics. Operating in 26 countries, Odebrecht has more than 190,000 team members of 70 different nationalities and exports products and services to more than 70 countries worldwide.

About Braskem: Braskem is the largest producer of thermoplastic resins in the Americas. With 36 industrial plants in Brazil, the United States and Germany, the company produces over 35 billion pounds of thermoplastic resins and other petrochemicals per year. Braskem is the world’s leading biopolymers producer with its 440 million pound green polyethylene plant that produces polyethylene from sugarcane-based ethanol.

West Virginia State