The Red River Valley in North Dakota is expanding its ag processing facilities, with Epitome Energy announcing Grand Forks as the location for a new soybean crush plant.

“We are grateful to welcome Epitome Energy to North Dakota,” says Josh Teigen, North Dakota Department of Commerce commissioner. “The new soybean crushing plant will be a great asset for local farmers and the state’s agricultural economic system, as it will create new local market opportunities for soybeans.”

Before its official selection, Epitome Energy was also reported to be considering Crookston, Minn., for the new venture.

Strengthen local agriculture

The North Dakota Department of Agriculture says the soybean crushing facility will strengthen farmers’ basis for soybeans by 20 to 25 cents per bushel, as farmers will be able to process soybeans closer to home.

“This project will put more money in the pockets of hardworking farmers in the Red River Valley region by helping them reach more markets to meet the growing demand for soybeans,” says Dennis Egan, Epitome Energy CEO.

A $400 million investment by Epitome Energy will build a full-service soybean crush plant. This plant is expected to process up to 42 million bushels of soybeans per year, creating soybean oil, meal and hulls.

The facility is expected to create 50 to 60 permanent jobs in Grand Forks, and support over 800 more positions in the area.

The project is expected to break ground just north of Grand Forks in the summer and begin operations in the fall of 2025.

North Dakota Department of Agriculture and Epitome Energy contributed to this article.