Ohio EPA issues permit for new Youngstown plant, but it won’t open for at least one year

The Ohio EPA approved a permit on Wednesday to let SOBE Thermal Energy Systems to operate a plant which would turn scrap tires to gas in Youngstown.

Last year, Youngstown City Council passed a one-year moratorium to stop the plant from opening, which overrides the plant from opening at this time, but SOBE officials say they want to work with the city to open the plant.

What is SOBE saying about the matter?

“We acknowledge the City Council’s decision on December 20th to introduce a 12-month moratorium to further study our proposed technology,” SOBE CEO David M. Ferro said in a statement on the company’s website. “SOBE respects this cautious approach and is committed to working closely with city officials and community members. Our goal is to foster understanding of the technology’s safety and its environmental benefits.

“We assure you that our operations will continue uninterrupted during this period. The moratorium does not affect our current method of converting natural gas to steam, ensuring that our steam services remain consistent and reliable. SOBE’s facility in Youngstown is dedicated to energy conversion and is not classified as an industrial facility. We are a part of the community, focused on enhancing the quality of life and economic stability in Youngstown through sustainable energy practices.”

Here is the full permit issued by the U.S. EPA.

This story was originally published February 15, 2024 at 10:35 AM.