Biotech firm MiAlgae has taken a significant step in its expansion plans by submitting proposals for a new production facility in Grangemouth, Scotland. The move is set to bolster Scotland’s green economic transition, with the first phase of the site projected to generate over 100 green jobs once operational.

The planned facility will enable MiAlgae to scale up its production of sustainable biotechnology solutions, which involve repurposing by-products from the whisky industry to cultivate microalgae. This microalgae serves as a sustainable and cost-effective alternative to fish-derived Omega-3s, catering to the growing demand from the aquaculture and pet food markets for ethical and sustainable sources. The company is also exploring opportunities in new sectors such as meat alternatives, nutraceuticals, and livestock feed, which have substantial global demand.

Strategically located near distilleries and MiAlgae’s customer base in Scotland’s Central Belt, the Grangemouth site is ideally positioned to support the company’s sustainable production model. Furthermore, the expansion is expected to offer retraining opportunities for workers transitioning from the oil and gas sector, aligning with Scotland’s commitment to a greener economy.

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The new facility will adopt a modular design, allowing for expansion in line with increasing demand and with future facilities planned both locally and internationally, close to feedstock sources. The company has emphasised the critical timing of the project and is keen for swift approval of the Grangemouth site plans, with alternative locations under consideration as a contingency.

Douglas Martin, Founder and CEO of MiAlgae, said: "Grangemouth has incredible potential for us as we look to the next stage of our growth. This location offers an ideal position to support our scaling efforts and meet the increasing demand for our 'biotech for good' solutions, with the creation of green jobs across engineering, production, and research and development. We are confident that this new facility will help build a greener future and bring high-quality, sustainable jobs to the local community."

MiAlgae has collaborated closely with various partners throughout the planning application process and is optimistic about future collaborations with the Scottish Government to support the region's green transition.

Douglas Martin added: "The area has a rich industrial history, and we’re proud to contribute to its evolution. We’re also proud to be involved in Project Willow, which encourages green industries to establish themselves in Grangemouth, contributing to the area’s transformation into a hub for green technologies. MiAlgae is at exactly the right stage of growth to contribute to the success of Project Willow. We are proven at scale, there is market demand for our product and we’re championing biotechnology in Scotland. We’re looking forward to working closely with local stakeholders and the Scottish Government to make this vision a reality."

MiAlgae’s expansion marks a significant milestone in the company’s objective to provide sustainable alternatives to traditional wild fish-based Omega-3 production.