Tensions raise concerns for Louisiana N plant

Baton Rouge — There was speculation last week that U.S./Russian tensions and potential sanctions over the situation in Ukraine could impact EuroChem’s proposed nitrogen plant for Louisiana. Concerns were that Russian President Vladimir Putin could retaliate against U.S. companies in Russia and alternatively thwart Russian investment in the U.S. Likewise, U.S officials may not be keen on new Russian investment in the U.S. However, Louisiana still wants the project. “Louisiana Economic Development continues to be supportive of the project,” said an LED spokesperson last week. “The company has not yet selected a location in Louisiana as it still is considering technical site matters associated with its in-state location options.” Earlier this year (GM Jan. 27, p. 12), EuroChem purchased a 2,150 acre site in Carrsville, La., for a potential $1.5 billion nitrogen (ammonia and urea) plant (GM July 15, 2013, p. 1), paying the state some $12 million. EuroChem still has an option on a privately-owned site at Edgard in St. John the Baptist Parish. If EuroChem doesn’t ultimately locate the project in Carrsville, Louisiana has the option to designate an alternate buyer that would purchase the site from the company. Louisiana is providing EuroChem with a $6 million grant for infrastructure improvements.