Join Us!

On May 26th, the Central Interior Branch is hosting a virtual lunch-and-learn where we’ll discover all there is to know about the hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL) process at Arbios in Prince George, B.C. from resident expert and chemical engineer, Sotirios Korogonas.

If you wish to see to the facility up close, register for the on-site tour on May 28th. Sotirios will provide on the ground insights into how this facility operates and what role it fills in today’s transition toward a lower-carbon future. Register today as tour space is limited to 8 participants!

Learn about the leading HTL technology deployed at Arbios and the company behind the vision. Arbios, wholly owned by Licella, a global pioneer in hydrothermal liquefaction, envisions a future where waste and under-utilized biomass becomes a valuable resource in a low-carbon circular economy.

The Chuntoh Ghuna facility in Prince George, B.C., meaning "the forest lives" in the Dakelh language, demonstrates how under-utilized biomass can become sustainable solutions, inspiring similar projects globally. Established in close partnership with the Lheidli T'enneh First Nation on whose unceded territory it stands, the facility exemplifies shared values in sustainable development.

Chuntoh Ghuna is the world's largest biomass based HTL facility, using Licella's proprietary Cat-HTR™ technology to convert forest residues into a high-quality renewable bio-oil intermediate. Fuels made from bio-oils like Arbios' have the potential to have a footprint of up to 80% less greenhouse gas emissions when compared to fossil fuels.

Sotirios Korogonas P.Eng is a seasoned chemical engineer and executive leader with nearly 30 years of experience across the pulp, forestry, and bioenergy sectors. Over two decades at Canfor Pulp in Prince George, BC, Sotirios held a series of General Manager roles spanning mill operations, strategic capital and energy, business transformation, biofuel development, and ultimately overseeing Strategy, Energy, and Sustainability; building a reputation for combining deep technical expertise with strategic leadership.

Since 2024, Sotirios has expanded into consulting through Sofos Consulting, providing technical and business advisory services in engineering, energy, environment, and sustainability. He has most recently taken on the role of Plant Manager at Arbios, bringing his operational and bioenergy background to the emerging renewables space. He is driven by a passion for innovation, continuous improvement, and sustainable industrial solutions.

To purchase tickets a BCSEG website account is required. There is no additional cost to register for an account on our web platform. Click "Create Account" at the top of our site page.

PPE is required to attend this tour on May 28. Please bring steel toe-capped boots. If you have your own hard hats and protective glasses, you are welcome to bring your own, otherwise, all other PPE will be provided.