CF Industries Blue Point LLC has formally submitted a permit application to the New Orleans Engineer District, seeking approval for the establishment of an industrial blue ammonia facility and associated marine terminal along the Mississippi River in Ascension Parish, Louisiana. The selected site is strategically positioned on the right descending bank of the river at Mile 184, in close proximity to Modeste, Louisiana.

Outlined in the application, the envisioned blue ammonia facility encompasses a comprehensive infrastructure, including a robust heavy haul road, a marine terminal, and a strategically positioned pipe rack that traverses the levee. The operational setup will rely on a natural gas pipeline to fuel the ammonia manufacturing process, ensuring efficiency and sustainability in production.

One of the distinctive features of this proposed facility is its commitment to environmental responsibility. The facility aims to produce approximately 4,300 tons per day of low-carbon ammonia by integrating cutting-edge carbon capture and sequestration technologies. This eco-conscious approach underscores CF Industries' dedication to minimizing the carbon footprint associated with ammonia production. The resulting low-carbon ammonia is poised to serve dual purposes – as a hydrogen-based fuel and as a valuable fertilizer.

The end product, derived from advanced and sustainable manufacturing processes, is slated for exportation. CF Industries envisions utilizing barges or ships to transport the blue ammonia to various destinations. This strategic exportation plan aligns with the company's broader objectives to contribute to the global market while meeting the rising demand for eco-friendly and versatile ammonia-based products.

The construction phase of the proposed facility involves a notable environmental consideration. To facilitate the development, approximately 45 acres of the Mississippi River bottom will undergo dredging. The material extracted from this process is slated for responsible disposal in the river, specifically below the -55-foot contour downstream of the designated project site. This conscientious approach aims to minimize ecological impact while ensuring the successful realization of the ammonia facility.

As part of the project's broader economic implications, CF Industries, in a press release issued in September 2023 by Louisiana Economic Development, disclosed key details regarding the anticipated investment and job creation. The proposed facility comes with a substantial price tag, exceeding $2 billion. This sizable investment underscores the scale and ambition of the project, emphasizing the company's commitment to technological innovation and sustainable practices.

Beyond the financial investment, the project is expected to generate positive economic outcomes in terms of employment. CF Industries anticipates the creation of 50 direct new jobs, providing employment opportunities and contributing to the local and regional economy. This aspect aligns with broader initiatives to stimulate economic growth, job creation, and technological advancement within the community.