A two-year pilot biocharBiochar is a carbon-rich material created from biomass decomposition in low-oxygen conditions. It has important applications in environmental remediation, soil improvement, agriculture, carbon sequestration, energy storage, and sustainable materials, promoting efficiency and reducing waste in various contexts while addressing climate change challenges. More facility in Marina, California, has successfully concluded, proving the technology and integrated systems necessary for commercial-scale production. The project, operated by Sitos Group, was situated at ReGen Monterey and focused on converting organic waste into biochar, a charcoal-like substance used for soil improvement.
According to Sitos Group CEO Mayo Ryan, the pilot was designed to validate a complete end-to-end model, encompassing production, post-processing, and integration with existing soil and compost applications. The positive results from this project have laid the groundwork for a new, full-scale commercial facility.

A significant achievement for the company during this pilot phase was securing an air permit for their biochar system from the Monterey Bay Air Resources District. This milestone is seen as a crucial step for future carbon-negative projects, establishing a precedent for regulatory approval in the region.

The success of the Marina pilot has directly led to the development of Sitos Group’s first commercial biochar facility. This new plant, a $9 million, 25,000-square-foot facility, will be constructed at Treehouse California Almonds in Delano and is scheduled to begin operations by the end of 2025. The facility is designed to process 6,000 pounds of almond shells per hour, with an expected annual carbon removal capacity of nearly 20,000 tons.

Looking ahead, Sitos Group also plans to expand its presence in Monterey, with a larger project projected to be operational by early 2027. This progression from a successful pilot to commercial-scale projects marks a notable development in the biochar industry’s growth and scalability.

SOURCE: Pilot biochar program ends its run at ReGen Monterey as company moves forward with commercial facility