POET to Acquire Green Plains Obion Facility

Key Takeaways

• POET signed an agreement to acquire Green Plains Obion, a bioethanol facility in Tennessee.
• The acquisition increases the company’s annual bioethanol production capacity by 120 million gallons.
• With the addition, the company’s network expands to 35 bioprocessing facilities across nine U.S. states.
• The Obion site provides strategic access to southeastern markets, enhancing distribution.
• The transaction is expected to close in the third quarter of 2025.

POET Expands Production with Green Plains Obion Acquisition

POET, the world’s largest biofuel producer, announced an agreement to acquire Green Plains Obion, a bioethanol facility in northwestern Tennessee. The move will add 120 million gallons of production capacity annually and strengthen POET’s access to southeastern U.S. markets.

“This acquisition enables POET to produce even more high-quality, American-made biofuels and bioproducts—creating grain markets for our farmers, reducing our dependence on foreign oil, and empowering rural communities to play a key role in strengthening the global bioeconomy,” said Jeff Broin, POET Founder and CEO.

Strategic Expansion Across U.S. Markets

Once finalized, the transaction will expand POET’s portfolio to 35 bioprocessing facilities across nine states, bringing its total annual production capacity to 3.1 billion gallons of bioethanol. The Obion facility, commissioned in 2008, covers 230 acres and includes corn storage and rail infrastructure.

“This facility will enhance POET’s competitive advantage within our industry and within the liquid fuel sector by growing our existing fleet and expanding our reach into southeastern markets,” said Jeff Lautt, POET President and COO.

Broader Bioethanol and Bioproduct Portfolio

In addition to bioethanol, the company produces a range of plant-based bioproducts such as animal feed, corn oil, bioCO₂, and purified alcohol, serving both domestic and international customers. In 2024, the company ranked as the 15th-largest U.S. container exporter, with shipments to more than 25 countries.

The company also continues to support expanded adoption of E15, a 15% bioethanol fuel blend, across the U.S.

Looking Ahead For POET

“POET was founded nearly 40 years ago with a bold vision: to revitalize rural communities, improve our environment, and redefine our energy future,” Broin added. “Today, that vision is more important than ever. We look forward to expanding the POET team to Tennessee as we continue to harness the power of American agriculture and bioprocessing.”