Synergen plant would provide benefits to area

Dear Editor:
Synergen is writing to provide additional information regarding our emission-free ammonia plant proposed for Hamilton County. This development represents a forward-thinking investment in both our local economy and environment, bringing with it numerous benefits that will uplift the community in lasting ways.
Not only will this project create approximately 65 stable, well-paying jobs, with a projected payroll of $4 million per year, directly benefiting local families and businesses, but it will also add an estimated $50 million to our county’s combined tax revenues over a 30-year period, providing essential funds that can be reinvested into local infrastructure, schools, and community services. This is an increase over existing tax revenues of approximately 18 percent
An economic study, authored by Dr. Ernie Goss (Professor of Economics, Heider College of Business, at Creighton University) states that the plant represents an economic “game changer” for Hamilton County all while supporting Hamilton County’s agricultural heritage and contributing to a cleaner environment. Local farmers will benefit from easier access to nitrogen-based fertilizers, reducing transportation costs and logistical challenges. This can lead to cost savings and increased agricultural productivity. The plant will offer tailored fertilizer formulations to meet specific soil and crop requirements, optimizing crop yields and profitability. A local ammonia plant will enhance supply security for fertilizers, reducing reliance on imports and mitigating risks of shortages or price fluctuations.
The study explains by infusing fresh revenue into the state and retaining local spending, this project wields a notable influence on both local and statewide economies. It is estimated that during the construction period the project will boost total sales by $339.8 million, wages and salaries by $81.7 million, and self-employment income by $22.3 million. Furthermore, the Synergen Ammonia Project will support an annual average of 686 jobs and generate $14.5 million in state and local taxes. 
During the following 20 years of operation the Ammonia Project is projected to heighten total sales by $4.9 billion, wages and salaries by $662.4 million, and self-employment income by $125.9 million. Furthermore, the project will support an annual average of 534 direct and spillover jobs and generate $177.3 million in state and local taxes. 
Most important is the rate of return for every $1 of taxpayer spending on roads, schools, and other public facilities is estimated to be $15.50. Furthermore, the wages of workers will exceed the county average wage and lift the standard-of-living county-wide.
Importantly, Synergen has demonstrated its commitment to compliance and environmental responsibility. Synergen met with Upper Big Blue NRD and followed all its directions and met all its regulatory requirements by conducting an extensive water study that including hydrological modeling. This model demonstrated to the NRD and its chosen independent hydrologists, there are no adverse effects on the water aquifer which can sustain the water supply through predictable periods of surplus water and drought. 
Synergen is empathetic to those persons who are concerned by the demands placed upon the aquifer. We all share in the same duty of care. While it is understandable that people are fearful that the quoted 3 million gallons per day is a big number, we should keep it in perspective with the demands placed upon the aquifer by farm irrigation. The plant is designed to use approximately 2,000 gallons of water per minute, which is roughly equivalent to three typical farm pivots, each of which is permitted for 700 to 1,000 gallons per minute. Considering that farm pivots do not operate 24/7, the ammonia plant’s water use is roughly equivalent to just 16 pivots running during a normal crop season. Remember too, that the land occupied by the plant displaces 3 existing pivots, so the 16 pivots is lessened to just 13.  Furthermore, the plant discharges approximately 350 gallons per minute of clean “wastewater” which will be returned to the Big Blue River and other surface water sources. 
While it is true that the new plant will be a new draw upon the aquifer it is not detrimental in the way it has been portrayed. If that were the case the Upper Big Blue NRD would not have granted a water permit in the first place.  What has not been portrayed until now are the significant, game changing economic benefits, the new plant will bring to the local community, the county and the state, as quantified in Dr. Goss’s report. We have made an effort here to quantify the effects of the water use to allay the concerns of those fearful of its use. We should not let unquantified concerns obscure the game changing positive community benefits this plant brings which has been the case thus far.
Synergen’s commitment to emission-free technology and sustainable practices speaks to the company’s dedication to being a responsible member of the community. By prioritizing environmental stewardship, this plant, located in the existing industrial quarter of Aurora, stands as a model for how industrial development can coexist with community values and conservation, setting a standard that our community can be proud of.
We hope you will see how this facility will be a positive addition that aligns with the county’s goals for economic growth, job creation, and environmental responsibility. Let’s not lose the opportunity to better ensure continued prosperity for our future generations.
John Hewitt
Synergen Green Energy