The operator of an ethanol plant in Hugoton announced Monday it is seeking either the sale of the complex or a strategic partnership.

Abengoa Bioenergy has hired Ocean Park Advisors of southern California to handle the process. Proposals are expected by mid-August.

Abengoa entered chapter 11 bankruptcy last November, and suspended operations at its Hugoton and Colwich plants in December. A news release mentioning the possible Hugoton sale said nothing about the Colwich plant.

The Hugoton plant sits on 400 acres, and is designed to produce 21 megawatts of gross electric power per year. Abengoa cited low gas prices in the decision to shut it down last year.