GPC’s New Dryer House Is Operational

Grain Processing Corporation’s new dryer house is fully operational. Originally estimated to cost $75 million, GPC, Muscatine, IA, spent more than $83 million on the project, which was completed on schedule and included additional environmental controls.

As GPC officials promised, the advanced technology to dry grain is making a demonstrable difference in emissions. 

“We are very proud to have delivered on our promise to have the new dryer house operational and this investment in people and jobs in our community.  We are confident the years of diligent work that went into this technologically-advanced facility will put GPC at the top of our industry standards in restricting emissions,” said John Thorpe, GPC president.

GPC has worked steadily to lower emissions through a number of projects and processes, the Dryer House 5 project is the largest and most comprehensive. The new dryer house is one of the largest dryers in existence and replaces 11 existing dryers that have permanently ceased operation. Years of research and planning made it possible. GPC is pleased to be commissioning Dryer House 5 as part of its ongoing sustainability initiatives. 

In 2014, GPC announced plans to transition from coal to natural gas as its fuel source, taking extraordinary steps to convert all of its coal-fired boilers to natural gas-fired no later than mid-July 2015. Converting the GPC boilers to natural gas dramatically reduces sulfur dioxide, lead, and other emissions.

“Environmental responsibility and sustainability is a mainstream expectation for GPC. These two massive undertakings demonstrate that commitment,” said Mick Durham, director of environmental services for GPC.