The J.R. Simplot Co. has approved preliminary engineering and permitting for an anhydrous ammonia production plant next to the Simplot Phosphates Fertilizer Complex south of Rock Springs, Wyo., as part of a $170 million expansion at the complex. Two Simplot officials explained the proposed ammonia project to the Rock Springs City Council on Tuesday, Jan. 7.
The new ammonia plant would allow Simplot to produce ammonia instead of importing it by rail, using natural gas as both a feedstock and fuel. About 18,000 tons of ammonia would be stored onsite at atmospheric pressure. Lower natural gas costs make constructing an ammonia plant economically feasible.
Darin Howe, Simplot environmental, health and security manager, told the Rock Springs City Council that the ammonia plant would not expand the complex’s fertilizer production capacity. He said it may require an extra natural gas line, but would not require substantial additional water service.