Phoenix Renewable Energy Breaks Ground in Camden

CEO Phoenix Renewable Energy CEO Sam Anderson said, “We believe it’s time to put Camden back on the map and back to economic health.” United States Representative Mike Ross of Arkansas said, “We are committed to creating a cleaner environment and a solution to American energy needs while creating jobs right here in south Arkansas.” Phoenix Renewable Energy broke ground Thursday at the Port of Camden along the Ouachita River. The company’s new facility will use thrush—or timber leftovers that land owners generally have no use for— they’ll burn it, turn it into steam and make electricity. Anderson, “We are proud to tell you that the plant you see here omits nothing but steam. You will not suffer any affects to us being here—in fact we are considered a carbon neutral facility.” Phoenix will bring with it 60 jobs on site but overall the company says it’s creating about four hundred jobs. Camden Mayor Chris Claybaker says the company is breathing new life into the city. He said, “It’s a kick start to our timber industry again and that’s what we need.” CEO Sam Anderson says Camden will soon be a national leader and an example in creating renewable energy around the world. The plant will operate where the old International Paper plant use to be. Mayor Claybaker says when the paper plant closed in 2000 it took away many jobs and dreams—but today, they have a new hope. Mayor Claybaker said, “It’s really exciting overall--- it’s a good day in Camden. And Phoenix Renewable Energy says it’s already looking to the future and exploring opportunities for expansion in the coming years. Stephen Walker, Director of Development with Phoenix said, “We’ve identified some locations in south Arkansas and we’ve had some real serious discussions about taking a look at Bastrop, Louisiana.”