(University of Arkansas/Biomass Magazine) University of Arkansas chemical engineering associate professor Jamie Hestekin has received two grants totaling $145,250 from a local technology development firm to help the company convert woody biomass into bio-oil and eventually liquid biofuel. The funding will
Archive
Back TO HOMEStudy Helps Map Path to Improved Cassava Production
by Robert Sanders (UC Berkeley/Ethanol Producer Magazine) A new analysis of the genetic diversity of cassava will help improve strategies for breeding disease resistance and climate tolerance into the root crop, a staple and major source of calories for a
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
RFA Questions Fairness of Big Oil Tax Subsidies
(Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) ... While hardworking Americans will receive an average of more than $2,800 in refunds, did you know that oil producers and refiners receive $4 billion–6 billion in federal tax incentives and subsidies every year? What makes
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
UAI Calls Court Decision on MOVES Model a Temporary Setback
(Urban Air Initiative/Ethanol Producer Magazine) The effort to stop the U.S. EPA from implementing a model that unfairly blames ethanol for increased emissions hit a “temporary setback,” according to officials from the Urban Air Initiative in response to action by
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
CNG More Harmful for Environment than Diesel: Gujarat Govt to High Court
(ZeeNews.India) ... Citing an expert committee report on fuels, the state government today told the Gujarat High Court that CNG will prove more harmful to the environment than diesel "as CNG engines emit more greenhouse gases than diesel". In its affidavit filed
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Create the Future Design Contest Accepting 2016 Entries DEADLINE: July 1, 2016
(Create the Future Design Contest) The Create the Future Design Contest was launched in 2002 by the publishers of NASA Tech Briefs magazine to help stimulate and reward engineering innovation. The annual event has attracted more than 12,000 product design
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Bioenergy Institute for Educators Adds Spark to Wisconsin Teacher’s Classroom
by Leslie Shown (Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center) Given the shouts and cheers emanating from Lisa Andresen’s classroom, one might guess that Room 105 doubles as the school’s gym. In fact, these are the sounds of middle school students exploring energy
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
“EA” Biomass Pretreatment Cuts Enzyme Use, Boosts Biofuel Production
by Krista Eastman (Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center) Less input, more output. That’s the achievement of a new biomass pretreatment method that could help improve the economics of cellulosic biofuels, the second-generation biofuels made from grasses, wood, and the inedible
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
DOE-Funded Bioenergy Research Centers File 500th Invention Disclosure
by Krista Eastman (Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center) Three U.S. Department of Energy-funded research centers – the BioEnergy Science Center (Oak Ridge National Laboratory), the Great Lakes Bioenergy Research Center (University of Wisconsin–Madison and Michigan State University), and the Joint BioEnergy
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Clean Diesel: Fueling a Decade of Change / Recognizing the 10-year anniversary of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel this Clean Air Month
(Diesel Technology Forum) Ten years after the introduction of ultra-low sulfur diesel fuel in 2006, the Diesel Technology Forum recognizes the role of the shift to cleaner diesel fuel and its importance in the major environmental accomplishments being celebrated during
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Scotland Commercializing the Biorefinery Concept
(Algae Industry Magazine) Scotland is planning the move from an oil-based economy to a bio-based future. A key principle of the government’s desire to embrace a more circular economy in the process is the broad application of Industrial Biotechnology (IB).
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Meeting 2025 CAFE Good for Consumers, Necessary for Climate; Getting There No Easy Feat
(Environmental and Energy Study Institute) ... To achieve CAFE for the light duty fleet – there is no one-sized fits all solution. Considering each potential CAFE compliance pathway alone -- biofuels, improvements in fuel efficiency and electrification -- won’t realistically allow
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
REG: Geismar RHD Plant Resumed Operations in March
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) Renewable Energy Group Inc. recently released first quarter financial results, reporting its 75 MMgy Geismar renewable diesel plant in Louisiana restarted operations in March. The plant, formerly known as Dynamic Fuels LLC, was acquired by
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
American Ethanol, Enogen Named Sponsors for June Iowa XFINITY Race
(NASCAR) Iowa Speedway today (May 3, 2016) announced American Ethanol will serve as the entitlement sponsor and Enogen as the presenting sponsor for the NASCAR XFINITY Series race during Wide Opening Weekend on June 18-19. The NASCAR XFINITY Series American Ethanol
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Oil Firms Have 10 Years to Change Strategy or Face 'Short, Brutish End'
by Terry Macalister (The Guardian) Business models employed by multinationals such as Shell and BP are no longer fit for purpose, warns energy expert -- ... Paul Stephens, a fellow at Chatham House thinktank, said in a research paper the oil “majors”
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Government Spent Billions Turning 45% Of American Corn Into Ethanol
by Andrew Follett (The Daily Caller) Roughly 45 percent of American corn is now used to produce biofuels like ethanol due to enormous levels of taxpayer support, according to an infographic published Wednesday by a global warming researcher. ... The infographic was compiled
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Norton Says She'll Keep Fighting Against Ethanol Shipments Through D.C.
by Patrick Madden (WAMU) D.C.’s delegate to Congress says the government should ban ethanol and other flammable substances from being transported by freight rail through densely-populated areas like Washington, D.C. When 16 cars derailed Sunday near the Rhode Island Avenue Metro station
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Courier Giant Ushers in ‘Future of Aviation’ with Biofuels Drive
by George Ogleby (EurActiv) The world’s largest express transportation company, FedEx, is pioneering the use of sustainable aviation fuels through a new partnership which will see millions of gallons of biofuel produced from waste wood biomass. EurActiv’s partner edie.net reports. FedEx,
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
US House Defense Appropriation Bill Would Stop the US Navy from Purchasing Bio-Jetfuels and Bio-Based Diesel for the US Fleet House Subcommittee on Defense Votes Today (5/11/16) at 5:30 pm EDT
by Robert Kozak (Advanced Biofuels USA) The Defense Department Budget put together by Republican leadership would stop the US Navy from buying biofuels for the Fleet. This would end the “Great Green Fleet” and related projected that Secretary of the
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Lawmakers Seek Ethanol Cap: House Bill Would Codify Ethanol Blend Wall
by Todd Neeley (DTN The Progressive Farmer) The ethanol industry has hit the blend wall where total production exceeds the available E10 market, and a small group of federal lawmakers wants to keep it that way. ... Legislation introduced in the U.S.
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Defense Approps Stops Military from Spending on Low-GHG Fuels
by Eric Wolff (Politico's Morning Energy 5/12/2016) Straightening ME out on Section 526: The defense appropriation draft defunds any implementation of Section 526 of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007. Section 526, as it turns out, says that
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Malawi Embraces Ethanol as Alternative Fuel
by Dibie Ike Michael (AfricaNews) ... Malawian motorists are now enjoying cheaper, greener alternative ethanol-fueled cars amid economic hardships in the country. Malawi launched a renewable fuels programme in 2015 as part of the government’s efforts to reduce the country’s dependence on foreign
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Corn Ethanol’s Success Post-2022
by Senator Mike Rounds, R-SD (Capital Journal) In a recent letter to the editor, “Rounds sends mixed signals on ethanol,” the author’s critique was based on my decision to speak at an event sponsored by an anti-ethanol group. I’d like to be very
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Senate Opens Door for Increased Ethanol Use
by Tom C. Doran (AgriNews) Legislation that supporters say will enhance consumer choices and increase demand for Illinois corn was unanimously approved in the Illinois Senate. The bill allows the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity to receive nearly $11.98 million from
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Hawaii Approves $1.5 Million towards Zero Waste Conversion Biofuel Project
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In Hawaii, the state’s budget bill for 2015-2017 is heading to the governor for signature which includes $1.5 million in capital funding for the state’s ongoing development of a facility in Keaau to plan, design
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Business Strategies for Transitioning the Bioeconomy to a Landscape with Long-Term Profitability
by Mahmood Ebadian (Biomass and Bioenergy Research Group/Biomass Supply Chain Consulting Ltd./Biofuels Digest) ...With specialization occurring in feedstock engineering, these new business entities will be well-positioned to produce multiple products including both intermediate and final bio-products. In other words, they
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Cutting out the Middlefish: The Digest’s 2016 Multi-Slide Guide to Cellana
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) READ MORE
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
The 10 Biggest Bioeconomy Cap Raises for 2016
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Florida, The Digest reports that the Top 10 capital raises for 2016 to date for company development — and pilot, demonstration and commercial-scale projects. Average deal size among the Top 10 was $18.9M and the median size
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
CALL FOR PROJECTS: International Specialized Exhibition EXPO 2017 --- June 10 through September 10, 2017 --- Astana, Kazakhstan DEADLINE: July 31, 2016
We are glad to inform you that an international call for applications/projects for the EXPO 2017 Energy Best Practices Area has been announced. In 2017, Kazakhstan’s capital Astana will host the International Specialized Exhibition EXPO 2017 under the aegis of the Bureau International des Expositions
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Harmonisation and Pragmatism Required for an Effective Future EU Sustainable Bioenergy Policy!
(European Biomass Association) AEBIOM answer to the European Commission Public Consultation - A sustainable bioenergy policy for the period after 2020 -- The European Biomass Association (AEBIOM) welcomes the initiative of the European Commission to define a sustainable EU bioenergy policy for the
May 11, 2016 Read Full Article
Government Negotiators Receive Encouragement from Aviation Industry Leaders
(Air Transport Action Group) A High Level Meeting being convened by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) on 11 May received executive-level support from the aviation industry today, as leaders representing all parts of the sector encouraged governments to progress
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Grant Helps Project Realize “Ultra-Productive” Biofuel Crops, Attract Investors
by Claire Benjamin (University of Illinois) ... The University of Illinois and the University of Florida have been awarded a third round of funding from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) to realize ultra-productive biofuel crops. ... Nearly $300,000 of
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Can We Save the Algae Biofuel Industry?
by Christian Ridley (The Epoch Times) Algal biofuels are in trouble. This alternative fuel source could help reduce overall carbon emissions without taking land from food production, like many crop-based biofuels do. But several major companies including Shell and ExxonMobil are seemingly
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Premium Ethanol-Free Gas No Longer Available in S.C.
by Gene Zaleski (The Times & Democrat) ... SCDA (South Carolina Department of Agriculture) spokeswoman Stephanie Sox says consumers will still be able to purchase ethanol-free gasoline at an octane of 90. In order for ethanol-free gasoline to be labeled premium, it needs
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Hillary Clinton's Climate and Energy Policies, Explained
by David Roberts (Vox.com) Media coverage of the Democratic primary has not shed much light on Hillary Clinton's proposals for climate change and clean energy policy. But oh, she has proposals. Lots of them! I read the white papers. And
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Boating and Engine Experts Call on Lawmakers to Boost Biofuel Blends
(Fuels America/The Auto Channel) Certified mechanics, engine performance experts, and professional fishermen are briefing lawmakers on Capitol Hill today about the importance of ethanol in protecting the environment, preserving America’s energy security, and providing a high-octane boost to marine engines.
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Bobby Likis Addresses Ethanol Myths
by Joanna Schroeder (DomesticFuel.com) This past weekend Bobby Likis debuted a video that tackles ethanol myths including those around the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS). Likis is a 20 plus year automotive expert, engine builder and repair shop owner among other
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
There’s One Group Not Ready to Ditch the Donald: Ethanol Producers
by Mark Drajem (Bloomberg) Bob Dinneen, president of the Renewable Fuels Association, says he’s confident that the next president — whether Donald Trump, or Democratic front-runner Hillary Clinton — would be fine for the biofuel industry. ... Both Trump and Clinton advocated
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Shipping Sector Emissions: Alternative Fuels for Marine and Inland Waterways Transport
(European Commission Joint Research Center) A recent JRC report finds that fuels like liquefied natural gas (LNG) and methanol are the most promising alternatives to drive decarbonisation of the shipping sector and ultimately contribute to the fight against climate change.
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Wassup, DOE EERE? The Digest’s 2016 Multi-Slide Guide to EERE’s Projects and Missions
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) What’s up at the DOE’s Energy Efficiency and Renewables unit ? Deputy Assistant Secretary for Energy Reuben Sarkar answered the question in this update, given at the Biomass R&D Technical Advisory Committee meeting. In this
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Air Canada and Biojet Supply Chain Initiative Choose Montréal-Trudeau Airport for Aviation Biofuel Project
(Yahoo! Finance/Air Canada) Air Canada today announced Canada's Biojet Supply Chain Initiative (CBSCI) will be held at Montréal-Trudeau Airport. It is a three-year collaborative project with 14 stakeholder organizations to introduce 400,000 litres of sustainable aviation biofuel (biojet) into a
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Science & SciLifeLab Prize for Young Scientists DEADLINE: August 1, 2016
(Science Magazine) This Prize was created to recognize that global economic health is dependent upon a vibrant research community and we need to encourage our best and brightest to continue in their chosen fields of research. Science/AAAS and SciLifeLab, a coordinated
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
The Future of Bioenergy Is in This Book-less Library
by Cory Hatch (Renewable Energy World) The Bioenergy Feedstock Library contains no books. What it does contain is information about biomass — organic material such as corn stover, switchgrass, wood chips and wheat straw. Nearly 50,000 biomass database entries and
May 10, 2016 Read Full Article
Sugarcane-Based Biofuels and Bioproducts
by Ian O'Hara, Sagadevan Mundree (Wiley) Sugarcane has garnered much interest for its potential as a viable renewable energy crop. While the use of sugar juice for ethanol production has been in practice for years, a new focus on using
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
AMA’s Broken Record on E15
by Robert White (Renewable Fuels Association) The American Motorcyclist Association (AMA) has been front and center on the E15 discussion since 2012 and has done everything in its power to stop or slow its expansion by attempting to induce fear
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
Letter: Rebuttal to My Voice on Ethanol
by Mike Pap (Angus Leader) In response to the My Voice written by George “David” Banks, “Corn ethanol mandate harmful to environment.” Everyone is entitled to their opinion. However, I question Bank’s intent, thinking he probably has oil interest in
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
Cellulosic Growth Likely for Ethanol Industry
by Terry Anderson (Lee Agri-Media/Iowa Farmer Today) Great market opportunities exist for the ethanol industry, Doug Durante said as he opened the Ethanol 2016: Emerging Issues Forum April 28. “We can help the auto industry meet their requirements,” he said. “They provide
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
Now Is Not the Time to Kiss the Biofuels Goodbye
by Dick Roche (EurActiv) The European Commission’s proposal to scrap the mandate for the use of biofuels and, in effect, to ‘kiss biofuels goodbye,’ is a catastrophic policy based largely on arguments that have no solid foundation, writes Dick Roche. ... Initially, biofuels
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
Cattle Grazing, Biofuel Crops Could Replace Sugar Production
(Yahoo! Finance/Associated Press) Alexander & Baldwin is considering cattle grazing and crops used for biofuels as it phases out sugar production at the state's last sugar plantation -- Hawaii company Alexander & Baldwin is considering cattle grazing and crops
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
USDA: FSFL Program Now Includes Microloan Option
by Erin Voegele (Ethanol Producer Magazine) On April 29, the USDA announced changes to the Farm Storage Facility Loan Program, which provides low-interest financing so agricultural producers can build or upgrade permanent facilities to store commodities. Renewable biomass is among
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
Most Innovative European Biotech SME Award Nominations Launch; €10,000 Prize at Stake DEADLINE: June 27, 2016
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Belgium, EuropaBio invited small and medium sized biotech companies (SMEs) across Europe to apply for the 7th edition of the Most Innovative European Biotech SME Award – a unique annual initiative recognizing biotech innovation
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
System of Systems : The Digest’s 2016 Multi-Slide Guide to the Nexus of Food, Water & Energy Systems
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) What’s up at the nexus of food, water and energy systems — what technology is critical, what’s being modeled and why? CBET Division Director JoAnn Slama Lighty answered the question in this update, given at
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
What is the Worst Waste?
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Is the worst waste actually the most toxic and odious waste, like nuclear? Or, rather, the one that tempts us to base our civilization on an energy version of a Ponzi scheme? So, what’s the remedy
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
USDA, DOE Partner to Invest $10 Million in Green Energy Research
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)'s National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) today announced the joint investment of $10 million towards research that will drive more efficient biofuels production
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
Energy Secretary: U.S. Must Be Energy Independent
by Donnelle Eller (Des Moines Register) Energy security remains a top concern, even with growing U.S. supplies of oil, natural gas and renewable energy, said U.S. Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz, kicking off a public forum on energy policies, electric markets and the grid in Des
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
Energy Department Announces Funding for Design and Construction of Manufacturing of Biofuels, Bioproducts and Biopower
(U.S. Department of Energy) Recognizing the importance of biofuels to energy and climate security, the Energy Department today announced up to $90 million in project funding focused on designing, constructing and operating integrated biorefinery facilities. The production of biofuels from
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
FY 2017 MAERDAF Now Open for Applications
(Rural Maryland Council) Established in 2000, the Maryland Agricultural Education and Rural Development Assistance Fund (MAERDAF) offers important financial support to rural-serving nonprofit organizations that promote statewide and regional planning, economic and community development, and agricultural and forestry education efforts.
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
The Green Friendship Bridge Series
by Mark Edwards (Algae Industry Magazine) The Green Friendship Bridge series examines a simple question: “What makes better sense, extending the border wall with Mexico 1,300 miles or taking 13 miles of fence investment to build 8,600 algae microfarms and sprinkle
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials Offers Advisory Services
(Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials) RSB is now offering a range of advisory services to support businesses, investors, development agencies, NGOs, and governments in applying the RSB standard to their operations, projects and policy development. Through technical and strategic advice, hands-on
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
Clean Diesel Delivers Clean Air Benefits to the Mid-Atlantic Region
(Diesel Technology Forum) ... Looking toward to the future, (Diesel Technology Forum executive director Allen) Schaeffer noted in the next decade that diesel would remain the prime mover for the global economy, but that new engines would be far more efficient
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
You Can't Always Get What You Want: What the Rolling Stones and Emerging Technologies Have in Common
(Diesel Technology Forum) Efforts to develop and “commercialize” emerging technologies in the time horizons considered may not provide substantial air quality benefits if these technologies do not find their way into the fleet in substantial numbers. ... Whether it is electric cars
May 09, 2016 Read Full Article
Green Transport Target Will Be Scrapped Post-2020, EU Confirms
by Frédéric Simon (EurActiv) EU laws requiring member states to use “at least 10%” renewable energy in transport will be scrapped after 2020, the European Commission confirmed, hoping to set aside a protracted controversy surrounding the environmental damage caused by biofuels. The
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Almost All U.S. Gasoline Is Blended with 10% Ethanol
(U.S. Department of Energy) Blends of petroleum-based gasoline with 10% ethanol, commonly referred to as E10, account for more than 95% of the fuel consumed in motor vehicles with gasoline engines. Ethanol-blended fuels are one pathway to compliance with elements
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Wassup, DOE? The Digest’s 2016 Multi-Slide Guide to the Bioenergy Technologies Office
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) What’s up at the DOE? Bioenergy Technologies Office Director Jonathan Male answered the question in this update, given at the Biomass R&D Technical Advisory Committee meeting. In this deck, he looks at milestones ahead, programs,
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Takin’ Cellulosic to the Mud Spa
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Out of the unlikely bioeconomy hub of West Palm Beach, Florida, Alliance BioEnergy Plus has revealed what it describes as the “successful completion of its yearlong efforts to optimize its patented CTS technology to extract
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
12th F.O. Lichts Sugar & Ethanol Brazil 2016: New Horizons for the Ethanol Industry in Brazil
by Lais F. Thomaz* (Advanced Biofuels USA) From 25 to 27 April 2016, renowned experts, entrepreneurs and government officials were reunited at the "12 th Sugar & Ethanol Brazil," conference organized by F.O. Lichts. In this event, workshops were held
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Europe Continues to Get Biodiesel Wrong
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) A provocative opinion piece on Europe's reliance on unsound indirect land use change theory -- It is clear there is a politicized agenda in Europe to undermine sustainable, liquid biofuels such as biodiesel and forge
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Bringing up Better Biofuel
by Rosalie Marion Bliss (US Department of Agriculture Agricultural Research Service) ... Now, Agricultural Research Service (ARS) scientists have advanced a process to produce crude liquid fuel called “bio-oil” from agricultural waste. The bio-oil is produced by a process called
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Should Taxpayers Keep Subsidizing the Ethanol Industry?
by Mike Crawley (CBC News) Ontario's $520 million fund for ethanol producers expires next year -- Ontario taxpayers are handing tens of millions of dollars to ethanol producers annually, but with a lucrative provincial fund set to expire at the end of
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
RFA Launching Boating Campaign to Combat E10 Misinformation
(Renewable Fuels Association/Ethanol Producer Magazine) As Memorial Day weekend approaches later this month and people start heading out to the beaches and on the water, the Renewable Fuels Association is launching an ad campaign today to correct misinformation regarding ethanol
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Wassup, ARPA-E? The Digest’s 2016 Multi-Slide Guide to ARPA-E’s AgroEnergy projects
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) What’s up at the DOE’s ARPA-E unit — the Advanced Research Projects Agency? Technology to Market advisor Krishna Doraiswamy answered the question in this update, given at the Biomass R&D Technical Advisory Committee meeting. In
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
The Unloved Business That's Saved Big Oil From Low Energy Prices
by Javier Blas (Bloomberg) Petrochemical earnings accounted for 75% of Exxon's net income; Oil executives see future for chemicals beyond crude rout -- Big Oil is suddenly Big Chemical. For years, the business of turning gas and crude into the chemicals used to
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Oil Majors Worth More Adopting 2˚C Pathway, Independent Stress Test Finds
(Carbon Tracker) The upstream assets of the world’s seven largest privately owned listed oil and gas companies could collectively be worth $100 billion more if they aligned their investment plans with the 2˚C target, a new study released today by
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Time Is Now to Take Advantage of Climate Solutions Offered by Agriculture
by Ernie Shea (25 x '25) Today starts a two-day “Climate Action 2016” summit in Washington that will bring together government, business and environmental leaders from around the globe “to strengthen the multi-stakeholder approach to climate implementation.” In other words, it’s a
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Governor Says Interest Is Already There for Biochemical Tax Credit
by O. Kay Henderson (RadioIowa) Governor Terry Branstad says companies already are expressing interest in the state’s new tax credit for firms that come up with new products made from the starches, sugars and oils left-over after ethanol and biodiesel are
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Aemetis Acquires Edeniq for $23.7M
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In California, Aemetis will acquire all of Edeniq’s outstanding shares in a stock plus cash merger transaction. In 2015, Edeniq generated approximately $20 million in revenue and $6 million in positive EBITDA. Headquartered in Visalia, California, Edeniq
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Shocker! Jobe Makes Sudden Exit as National Biodiesel Board CEO
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Missouri, the National Biodiesel Board announced that after nearly 20 years of service to the association, CEO Joe Jobe has left the organization to pursue other opportunities. The board will begin the search for a permanent
May 06, 2016 Read Full Article
Bosselman Enterprises Expands into Soy Biodiesel Realm
(Bosselman Enterprises) An expanded strategy into the biodiesel realm has resulted in Nebraska-based company Bosselman Enterprises' recent completion of the installation of an underground blender system for six underground tanks, to create blender biodiesel pumps at their Bosselman Travel Center
May 05, 2016 Read Full Article
Farmers Do More than Feed the World
by Katie Heger (Farm & Ranch Guide) ... It is just so cliché and doesn’t nearly cover all that agriculture is about. On our family farm, we do so much more than feed the world. Now, let me explain. Yes, my farm
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
THE REGULARS: Clean Energy Incentives Produce Spectrum of Benefits for Iowa
by Katie Colling (Sioux City Journal) ... So my question is, why should non-farming Iowans care about RFS or any of the tax incentives for production of alternative energy forms? ... Iowa now has 41 corn ethanol plants and two cellulosic plants and
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Farmers to Have Role in Changing Ethanol Industry
by Jessica Rose Spangler (Lancaster Farming) Ethanol isn’t a new concept. Using corn to make it isn’t either. And Pennsylvania even has a plant to create it, Pennsylvania Grain Processing LLC in Clearfield, which is capable of producing 110 million gallons
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Call for Public Comments – RSB Standard for End-of-Life Products, By-Products and Residues
(Roundtable on Sustainable Biomaterials) RSB invites the public to contribute to the revision of the RSB Standard for end-of-life products, by-products and residues which defines how operators may use these feedstocks for biofuel or biomaterial production. This RSB Standard covers specific terminology relevant for
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
CARB Issues Update on LCFS Pathway Certification
(California Air Resources Board/Ethanol Producer Magazine) California Air Resources Board staff has completed review of all ethanol pathway applications submitted on or before Jan. 31, 2016 through the alternative fuels portal (AFP). These submissions included both new applications and requests
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Inaction in Congress Helping Ethanol Right Now
by Chris Clayton (DTN The Progressive Farmer) ... Ethanol also remains stuck in a battle with EPA over vapor pressure with 15% ethanol over the summer months. 10% ethanol, E10, has such a waiver so it can be sold during the
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Tenacity Required to Secure Advanced Biofuels Future
by Michael McAdams (Advanced Biofuels Association/Biomass Magazine) Once again, we enter spring awaiting the U.S. EPA’s proposal for the renewable volumes obligations (RVO) for the next year. After six years in this cycle, we know that EPA must propose a
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
A Wiser Way to Handle Waste
by Ron Kotrba (Biomass Magazine) Near Manchester, United Kingdom, Dong Energy is constructing the first biogas plant using its REnescience technology that treats unsorted household waste with enzymes. Early this year, construction began on a unique plant at a 100-plus-year-old brownfield
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Rare Biodiesel Import to the U.S. from Australia Detected
(Genscape) On April 27, 2016, Genscape Vesseltracker detected a shipment of 4,200 tons (about 1.3 million gallons) of biodiesel from Australia arriving at the Texas Terminals Wharf in the Houston area. The Stolt Sun vessel carried the product that originated
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Cessna 182 Crosses Country on Biofuel
(Aircraft Owners and Pilots Association) Ross McCurdy, a science teacher from Ponaganset High School in Glocester, Rhode Island, has flown to Santa Monica, California, and back in a 1980 diesel-powered Cessna 182 owned by a New Jersey flying club using
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
RFS Central to America’s Manufacturing Strength
by Leif Magnusson (CLAAS Global Sales America Inc./Association of Equipment Manufacturers/Morning Consult) We have heard a lot about the importance of manufacturers during this election season, and as the head of a manufacturing business in Nebraska, I couldn’t agree more.
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Higher Ethanol Blends Are Coming Soon to a Gas Pump Near You
by Russell Hubbard (Omaha World-Herald) ... Convenience store operator Kum & Go says it is making a massive commitment to higher gasoline-ethanol blends, planning to sell E15 at about 100 more locations this year. The 430-store chain based in West Des
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Planned Project to Produce Ethanol, Chemicals from Beets on Hold
by Keith Norman (Forum News Service/Prairie Business Magazine) Industrial grade sugar beets, which can be used to produce ethanol and plastic, may become a farm crop for central North Dakota in the future, although the time is not right now,
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Australian Renewable Energy Agency Supports Development of $800m Bio-Energy Project
(Refining and Petrochemicals Energy Business Review) Renewable Developments Australia (RDA) has secured $3m from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (Arena) to support the development of a renewable biofuel production facility. The funding will be used by RDA to develop the business
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Reliable, Affordable, Scalable, Sustainable: The Digest’s 2016 Multi-Slide Guide to NexSteppe
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) NexSteppe is dedicated to pioneering the next generation of scalable, reliable, cost-effective feedstock solutions for the biofuels, biopower and biobased products industries. Using advanced breeding techniques and cutting-edge analytical technologies, NexSteppe is developing Malibu sweet
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
What Price Feedstock?
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... In all, respondents foresaw an $11.352 billion feedstock bioeconomy, at $57 per ton for advanced feedstocks — based on reaching that 200 million ton scale. Let’s look at the responses, in terms of feedstocks and
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Efficient Utilization of Volatile Waste Nutrients
by Everett Eustance, Joshua T. Wray, Shahrzad Badvipour and Milton R Sommerfeld (Arizona Center for Algae Technology and Innovation, Arizona State University/Algae Industry Magazine) Algaculture, or algae farming, like any form of agriculture, is highly sensitive to fertilizer costs. A
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Don’t Conflate Science and Scientists
by Brent Erickson (Biotechnology Innovation Organization/The Washington Post) Letter to Editor: Regarding the April 29 editorial “Burning wood is not the answer to climate change”: Biomass is a renewable energy resource. Congress is appropriately exercising its oversight authority in directing federal agencies
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Clean Diesel Delivers Clean Air Benefits to the Mid-Atlantic Region
(Diesel Technology Forum) ... Looking toward to the future, Schaeffer (Diesel Technology Forum executive director Allen Schaeffer) noted in the next decade that diesel would remain the prime mover for the global economy, but that new engines would be far
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Armed Forces Testing Biofuels to Reduce Costs
by Vic Schoonover (The Lawton Constitution) While this isn't information making Oklahoma oil and gas companies any happier during the downturn in oil and gas prices, the U.S. armed forces, namely the Navy and the Air Force, are actively testing biofuels
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Strong Demand for Biofuels to Drive Micronutrients Growth, New Study Finds
(Biofuels International) The global agricultural micronutrients market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of more than 8% until 2020 due to a strong demand for biofuels, according to new research. The report was published by UK-based
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Volkswagen to Promote Biofuel-Powered Cars ahead of Electric Ones to Tackle Carbon Emissions, New Report Suggests
(Biofuels International) Car giant Volkswagen (VW) has published a new study and called for the promotion of biofuel-powered cars over electric ones to help tackle carbon emissions. The report, entitled Integrated Fuels and Vehicles Roadmap 2030 and Beyond, and was commissioned
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Manildra Gave Inflated Jobs Figures to Minister before Ethanol Bill
by Sean Nicholls (Sidney Morning Herald) Ethanol producer Manildra gave vastly inflated figures to the NSW government about the number of people employed in the industry before legislation forcing small petrol retailers to sell the biofuel. According to better regulation minister Victor
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Gas Prices Reach a Six-Month High Just in Time for Summer
by Thomas Richard (Examiner.com) ... One thing that is helping to keep gas prices down is the introduction of ethanol into the mix. Ethanol, made primarily from distilled corn, replaces 10 percent of gasoline and is much cheaper than refined oil.
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
European Commission Slams Portugal for Failing to Comply with the RED
by Meghan Sapp (Biofuels Digest) In Belgium, the European Commission has sent to Portugal a reasoned opinion urging the Member State to ensure the full compliance of its biofuel legislation with the Renewable Energy Directive. The Directive sets the objective
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Project LIBERTY in "Ramp-Up" Phase
(POET) Project LIBERTY in Emmetsburg, Iowa, has produced and shipped several tank cars of cellulosic ethanol even as the plant is ramping up to its full 20 million gallon-per-year capacity. Last year’s startup phase yielded great experience that will benefit
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
REG Expands Logistics, Storage at Danville Biodiesel Plant
(Renewable Energy Group Inc./Biodiesel Magazine) enewable Energy Group Inc. announced May 2 that the company’s Danville, Illinois, operation now has more than 14 million gallons of tank capacity to store both biodiesel and feedstocks. REG Danville LLC recently purchased the tank
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Roiling the markets: The Digest’s 2016 Multi-Slide Guide to Oil Price Volatility and Prospects
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) With oil prices continued to roil markets, this deck on the oil price environment for 2016, presented by Raymond James senior vice-president Pavel Molchanov at the 2016 ABLC meeting, is both instructive and timely. READ
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Cruz Drops Out of US Presidential Race; Last Anti-Biofuels Candidate Toppled
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Indiana, the last anti-biofuels candidate for the US Presidency in 2016 exited the field, when Texas Sen. Ted Cruz announced that he was ending his presidential bid. The announcement clears the path for Donald
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
Earnings Season: REG, Green Plains, BioAmber, ADM Report Improving Outlooks, Growth Prospects
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Q1 earnings season for the advanced bioeconomy kicked off this week, with reporting from Green Plains, ADM, REG and BioAmber. That’s an ag giant, an ethanol monster, a biomass-based diesel dominator and a fast-upcoming renewable
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
University of Maryland Publishes Study: Considering the Cost of Clean: Americans on Energy, Air Quality and Climate
(University of Maryland Program for Public Consultation) ... To find out what Americans would recommend when given facts and arguments, the Program for Public Consultation at the University of Maryland developed an in‐depth survey instrument called a ‘policymaking simulation’ to be used for
May 04, 2016 Read Full Article
FutureMetrics Publishes Paper on Woody Biomass for Energy
FutureMetrics has a new whitepaper. A recent Washington Post editorial about using wood for energy was poorly informed. It was based on a letter sent to Congress by 65 “experts”. FutureMetrics’ new white paper is, “The Washington Post and 65
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
American Cars on Track to Double Fuel Efficiency
by Camille von Kaenel (ClimateWire/Scientific American) Pickups trucks and SUVs are not keeping pace, however -- A growing number of vehicles are meeting or surpassing federal fuel economy standards, though improvements to cars outpace those to trucks, according to a new
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
Renmatix Turns Biomass into Sugars for Industrial Use
(NewBIO/Cooperative Extension System) Technology patented by Renmatix enables the manufacture of industrial sugars from biomass on a scale that is commercially cost-effective. Table of Contents Introduction From Biomass to Sugars Benefits of Supercritical Water Customers Rebuild Biorefiners based on Plantrose™ Process
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
Half of U.S. Conservatives Say Climate Change Is Real
by Eric Roston (Bloomberg) Trump and Cruz reject global warming, while more Republicans see it as a threat. -- The percentage of conservative Republicans who consider global warming a threat shot up 19 points in two years, to 47 percent, according
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
Pershing Says 'High-Ambition Coalition' Could See Life Post-Paris
by Jean Chemnick (E&E/Climatewire) ... Jonathan Pershing, who took over the top post at the Office of the Special Envoy for Climate Change a few weeks ago, said the so-called high-ambition coalition that helped deliver December's accord could also inject ambition
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
Iowa Legislature Approves Funding for State Blender Pump Program
(Iowa Renewable Fuels Association) Iowa Legislature Votes Overwhelmingly to Extend Iowa Renewable Fuels Infrastructure Program Another Year -- The Iowa Legislature voted 94 – 0 in the House of Representatives and 49 – 0 in the Iowa Senate to secure
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
RFA Issues New Equipment Guidance for E15 Retailers
(Renewable Fuels Association) EPA gave final approval in 2012 to the use of E15 fuel and the fuel blend is now sold in 23 states. With many new retailers preparing to offer E15, the Renewable Fuels Association is concerned that
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
Indiana Fuel Retailer Family Express Receives $789K for Blender Pumps
(Renewable Fuels Association) Convenience store and fuel retailer Family Express is receiving more than $789,000 through an Indiana blender pump program to bring online 45 dispensers at 37 stations in the state, it was announced Monday. The Hoosier Homegrown Fuels Blender
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
Bolt-On Cellulosic Ethanol: The Digest’s 2016 Multi-Slide Guide to Edeniq
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Edeniq is a biorefining and cellulosic technology company. Edeniq delivers integrated process innovations that unlock sugars. These technological innovations uniquely combine mechanical and biological processes. Edeniq’s capital light and operationally efficient solutions can be easily
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
How to Make $250M in Cellulosic Biofuels with an Investment under $6M
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) ... Cellulosic fiber makes up approximately 10% of the corn kernel and cannot be converted into ethanol during the typical production process. By utilizing Edeniq’s Pathway technologies, including specialized enzymes and the Cellunator equipment, Aemetis
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
Guardian Energy Hosts 'Take Your Child To Work Day'
(Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association) On April 28, the Guardian Energy ethanol plant in Janesville hosted 24 children at its inaugural Take Your Child To Work Day. Coinciding with the national Take Our Daughters and Sons To Work day which is celebrated every year on
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
Anaerobic Digester Anchors Community-Scale Biofuel Production
by Rick Moore and Evan Edgar (BioCycle Magazine) How a California city of 100,000, which generates about 25,000 tons/year (tpy) of organics, can fuel the solid waste fleet serving that community. READ MORE Download report
May 03, 2016 Read Full Article
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