Location: Unionville, Missouri USA
Completed: 2021
What We Completed
The Whitetail project was a landmark initiative, featuring an innovative virtual pipeline unload terminal located just five miles from the TCE interconnect. This advanced terminal, initially accommodating three farms with three trailers each (expandable to four farms, totaling 12 trailer spots), revolutionized site logistics.
What We Achieved
Throughout the project, our combined engineering, design, construction and operations team produced a highly reliable and high-performing facility across all geographic areas by incorporating lessons learned from previous plants. This approach enabled us to meet both schedule and cost targets.
We are particularly proud of the successful startup and operation of the unloading terminal, the first of its kind at this scale and complexity. This achievement underscores our commitment to innovation and operational excellence.
What We Did Differently
Roeslein introduced a groundbreaking new product, the truck off-load (TOL) skid designed to seamlessly pair with the Certarus heating module. This advanced system controls and measures truck RNG decanting to the interconnect, and it has since become a staple in several other RNG projects. Additionally, Roeslein engineered the TCE interconnect metering skid to provide a utility-compliant, modular solution, dramatically shortening schedules and minimizing field work.
What We Faced
This project was faced with two main challenges: winter weather and off-farm installation. The winter of 2020/2021 was extremely cold and forced shutdown of the site for several weeks. Fortunately, the installation schedule included enough float to become mechanically complete and commissioned by the April biogas start of season.
The second challenge we experienced was off-farm land easement acquisition and execution. As with all off-site installations, extra care and due diligence is needed when constructing on other people’s property. We navigated the project using key project personnel and staying in close personal contact with landowners from initial easement signing through completion of construction and restoration of the land.
What We Learned
Lessons learned throughout the project reinforced essential objectives of any project. First, maximizing work in controlled environments to minimize fieldwork. Secondly, overcommunicating with customers and partners, fostering strong, fluid relationships. This ensured early identification of expectations and needs, allowing for prompt agreements.
By echoing these principles, we navigated the project’s challenges with precision, transforming obstacles into opportunities for growth and improvement.
What We Heard
The Roeslein team successfully built the facility on schedule, within budget and in full compliance with contractual requirements. Anecdotally, it has been recognized as one of the best-running Monarch RNG facilities.
“Sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. What’s critical there is that folks do what they say they’re going to do and honor their commitment, and Roeslein’s always done that for us.”
Kraig Westerbeek President, Smithfield Hog Production
How We Went Beyond the Ask
Our team members across various capacities are constantly pushing the envelope to achieve success. For this project, the commissioning team went above and beyond, performing exceptionally well to safely commission new technology systems on schedule and meet performance expectations. Their dedication and effort have truly set a benchmark for excellence.
