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Emily Wildman
Philadelphia
The recent public information session regarding the proposed KeyState chemical plant in Clearfield County highlights a crucial debate facing central Pennsylvania. As global supply chain disruptions and geopolitical conflicts continue to drive up synthetic ammonia-based fertilizer prices, finding ways to support Pennsylvania farmers is critical.
Global ammonia production is roughly 200 million metric tons annually. Despite the story being told, the amount of ammonia this facility plans to produce (less than 100,000 metric tons per year) is less than .05% of the global demand for ammonia -- a drop in the bucket. That amount is unlikely to shift or stabilize the price of nitrogen fertilizer made from ammonia.
The claim that a domestic facility will stabilize costs for U.S. farmers warrants skepticism. Ammonia is a feedstock for nitrogen fertilizer, and is part of a global market, so producing it locally does not guarantee Pennsylvania farmers stable or lower prices.
At the same time, a project of this size requires community leaders and regulators to thoroughly address the valid questions raised by local residents. Concerns surrounding the scalability and viability of proposed technologies, potential well water and property value impacts, as well as the burden on regional road and rail infrastructure, must not be overlooked.
The path forward demands a transparent approach. Pennsylvania can support its farmers and pursue economic growth without compromising the health of local communities, natural resources or public infrastructure.
Emily Wildman is a legislative advocate with Clean Air Council.