by Shelby Webb (E&E News Energywire) … As oil and gas companies rush to build carbon sequestration projects — in hopes of taking advantage of increased tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act — states are scrambling to answer questions about how to regulate the new industry. The climate law’s incentives
Kentucky
(The Daily Independent, Ashland, Ky./Yahoo!) Eleven Diesel Technology students completed a biodiesel training/information course with the Kentucky Soybean Board in November. Cody Fraley, Lucas Hammond, Bryan Reynolds, Hunter Vance, Carter Cole, Hunter Hay, Kenton Rose, Joshua Thayer, Rader Adkins, Stanley McCarty and Daniel Stewart are students in the first-year diesel engines
(Bioenergy Insight) Vision RNG has announced a Renewable Natural Gas (RNG) agreement with the Laurel Ridge Landfill (a subsidiary of Waste Connections) in Corbin, Kentucky, US. The project will use produce 450,000 MMBtu of RNG annually that will be injected into a nearby natural gas transmission pipeline. This RNG will
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In this project, researchers aim to establish a mechanistic pathway and characterize vs potential and pH, and demonstrate direct conversion of flue gas at high faradaic efficiency and current density. They also aim to demonstrate that the integrated flue gas feed with an optimized flow cell
by Robert Zullo (Wisconsin Examiner) Across the country, states are inking agreements with neighbors or striking out on their own to pursue billions in federal funding to set up “hydrogen hubs,” clustered centers for production, storage and use of the gas that many see as a crucial piece of the puzzle
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The objective of this project is to demonstrate the UK CO2 capture process at Nucor Steel Gallatin treating electric arc furnace evolved gas with a CO2 concentration of ~1.5 vol%.Kunlei Liu and Heather Nikolic of the University of Kentucky showed these slides at the National
(CoBank) … The cooperative (Hopkinsville Elevator) has also been successful because of its forward-thinking board of directors. One truly successful undertaking was the founding in 2004 of Commonwealth Agri-Energy, a wholly owned subsidiary and also a CoBank customer. Commonwealth buys more than one-third of Hopkinsville’s corn to convert into ethanol.
by Eleanor Johnstone (Advanced Clean Tech News) While it may be Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Day, hydrogen has been having a heyday throughout 2022. This abundant element supports numerous activities in the global economy, principally refining fossil fuels and producing steel, fertilizer, and ammonia. In the last 18 months, its
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) What can you actually make from CO2 that’s valuable, and more permanent? The goal of this project is to develop technology to convert CO2 to valuable products to partially offset carbon capture costs from the utility and industrial sectors. Also, to contribute to the production of
(North American Clean Energy) The State of West Virginia, EQT Corporation, the nation’s largest natural gas producer, Battelle and GTI Energy, both with deep expertise executing clean energy programs for the federal government, and Allegheny Science & Technology (AST), a leading West Virginia energy technology consulting firm, have collaborated to establish a Regional Clean Hydrogen
(Mississippi State University/Biomass Magazine) Mississippi State scientists have developed switchgrass varieties that are waking up the industry with exceptional germination rates and are ready for commercial use in the Deep South. Switchgrass is used for biofuels, soil and water conservation and carbon sequestration. The university is working with the Upton, Kentucky-based Roundstone
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) A deep dive into the potentiality of sorghum, as presented recently at ABLC Connect by company president Sean Voigt. READ MORE WATCH PRESENTATION
( U.S. Department of Energy) The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has awarded $29.5 million to 15 projects to improve the current science and infrastructure for utilizing waste streams, often disproportionately located in underserved communities, and support the development of improved organisms and inorganic catalysts for the production of valuable biofuels and bioproducts
by Cindy Zimmerman (Energy.AgWired.com) The U.S. Grains Council (USGC) organized a mission to Brazil last week to learn about the market potential Brazilian corn ethanol has domestically and globally and about logistics faced by U.S. ethanol exporters to Brazil at the main ports situated in the northeastern part of the country. The team
(Continental Refining/Biobased Diesel Daily) Continental Refining Co. announced June 30 that it has acquired Russell County Oil LLC, a bulk-fuels provider based in Russell Springs, Kentucky. The acquisition is part of Continental Refining’s continued expansion as it is currently investing an additional $31.5 million to acquire and install a soybean-crushing,
by Nicole Gauthier (University of Kentucky) The videos in this series were generated for the University of Kentucky 2020 Virtual Hemp Field Day, which was held on December 8 &9 9, 2020. Specialists from the University of Kentucky and the Kentucky Department of Agriculture have provided this production and pest management
(Synthica Energy/Business Wire) Synthica Energy, LLC announced today it has entered the permitting phase of development for a new anaerobic digestion facility in the heart of Kentucky’s famed distillery region. The facility will focus on converting distillery byproducts (stillage) from Kentucky’s growing bourbon industry into Renewable Natural Gas (RNG). Synthica’s facility
by Chip Flory (AgWeb) The soybean industry continues to prep for what’s expected to be demand growth for renewable diesel, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), “green” marine fuels and higher blends of biodiesel in home heating in the eastern U.S. Here are a few numbers for perspective: Soybean oil use for biofuels
by David Melanson (UK CAER/Biobased Diesel Daily) … Biofuels researchers at the University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research recently received funding from OUR&D, a unique grassroots not-for-profit organization based in Denver, Colorado, that is seeking to supplement the current research and development funding landscape. Founded by a group of
by Clark Mindock (Law360) A Texas-led group of states is slamming the Biden administration’s push to strengthen greenhouse gas standards for auto emissions, telling the D.C. Circuit on Monday it must intervene and stop a purported federal war on fossil fuels. The 14-state coalition headed by Lone Star State Attorney General Ken
(Eco-Energy/Business Newswire) With Eco-Energy’s relationships, global logistics and market intelligence, Eco-Specialty Alcohols is the natural partner in the high-purity alcohol trade — Eco-Energy LLC, a leading biofuel supply chain and energy solutions company, today announced the establishment of Eco-Specialty Alcohols, Eco-Energy’s high-purity alcohol marketing and trading division. Eco-Specialty Alcohols leverages Eco-Energy’s
(Kinder Morgan) First mover of segregated renewable diesel (R99) by pipeline — Kinder Morgan, Inc. (NYSE: KMI) today announced the receipt of the necessary commercial commitments to move forward with the permitting and construction of a renewable diesel hub in Southern California. Once constructed, the Southern California renewable diesel hub will
(Terravesta) Support for UK bioenergy is gathering pace. On Energy Day at COP26, the government issued a Biomass Policy Statement (BPS) which recognises the role bioenergy plays in delivering both global and UK net zero targets. It’s been issued alongside the recent biomass call for evidence to help develop policies to support
by Ron Kotrba (Biobased Diesel Daily) Twenty-five years ago, on Sept. 12, 1996, Wilhelm Hammer and Helmut Gössler founded BDI-Anlagenbau GmbH, launching the beginning of an impressive corporate history that changed the global biodiesel landscape with its “from waste to value” concept. Today, BDI Holding GmbH operates a financially strong holding
(Farm and Dairy) An Ohio company received a chunk of $26 million given out through the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program. Cincinnati-based United Dairy Farmers Inc. was awarded $634,000 to expand ethanol sales at its convenience stores and gas stations. Grants were awarded in 23 states, including Ohio. The projects
by Leah Caudill (WTVQ) The Continental Refining Company announced it is moving forward with plans to invest an additional $20 million to acquire and install a soybean crushing, biodiesel refining and blending facility at the current CRC oil refinery in Somerset, KY. CRC has completed its evaluation of the project feasibility

Agenda to include: * 2021 outlook for domestic and international markets for animal feed ingredients * Emerging issues affecting the livestock and poultry markets * Major drivers impacting the economics of the biofuels and beverage industries * Processing innovations and new feed ingredients * Improving and optimizing ingredient processing at
by Darrell Proctor (PowerMag.com) The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) announced the agency has awarded $2 million to four research and development (R&D) projects aimed at advancing clean-hydrogen production technologies. The DOE’s awards on March 15 are part of a push by the Biden administration in its fight against climate change.
by Ron Kotrba (Biobased Diesel Daily) Darling Ingredients released its Q4 and full-year 2020 financials on March 2, in which the company disclosed that it has shut down operations at its two biodiesel production facilities in Montreal, Quebec, Canada (Rothsay); and Butler, Kentucky (formerly Griffin Industries renamed Darling Ingredients). The Rothsay
by Art Cullen (Storm Lake Times/New York Times) … Few took carbon sequestration seriously during his previous tenure, a time when “resilient agriculture” had not yet entered the vernacular. But the fundamental conversation in the corridors of power and along gravel roads has changed. Extreme weather, a pandemic jolt to
Continental Refining Company Unveils Transformational “AgriTech” Plan for Refinery Plant in Somerset
(Continental Refining Company) New Soybean Crushing Plant and Biodiesel Production Facility would be on the Cutting Edge of Food and Energy Production — Hemisphere Limited, the parent company of Continental Refining Company (CRC), announced that it is exploring plans to invest an additional $25 million to acquire, relocate and install a
by Katie Pratt (University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment) Sulfur found in biofuel feedstock could pose serious problems to the industry, because it causes pollution, is toxic to the catalyst and corrosive to biorefinery equipment. A national group of scientists and industry partners led by researchers at the
(Biofuels International) Growth Energy welcomed the US Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) announcement of grants under the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Programme (HBIIP). Growth Energy’s network of both large and small retail partners secured nearly $30 million (€25 million) in grants for over 290 sites selling more than 400 million gallons
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Sonny Perdue announced today that the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has invested $22 million out of the up to $100 million in grants available to increase American ethanol and biodiesel sales. These funds were made available through the Higher Blends Infrastructure Incentive Program (HBIIP) to
(National Biodiesel Board) “Better, Cleaner, Now” message delivered from coast to coast — Newly branded vehicles highlighting biodiesel’s sustainability and emissions reduction benefits are rolling along city streets and interstate highways from the nation’s capital, to Texas oil country, up the California coast and throughout the Midwest. The National Biodiesel
(Houston Chronicle) Using current and past Census data, Stacker tracks the way the American farming industry has changed over the past century. Over the past century, American farming has changed dramatically. Crops with long histories like tobacco are still prevalent throughout the South, while many farmers across the country are now
by Michael Bates (NGT News) Clean Energy Fuels Corp., a provider of clean fuel for the transportation market, has been contracted by New York Metropolitan Transportation Authority (MTA) to provide its Redeem renewable natural gas (RNG), a fuel derived from organic waste, to power the MTA’s 800 natural gas transit buses. “The MTA is
by Joanne Ivancic* (Advanced Biofuels USA) “They seem to be serious,” said Atlantic Biomass’ Bob Kozak reflecting on a tour of a hemp farm in central Ohio. He noted, “They are going all-in, putting their own money into this—no grants and planting 26 acres the first year.” Kozak was there
by Katie Pratt (University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment) Dual-purpose industrial hemp cultivars show the best potential for coproduction of biofuel and bioproducts, according to University of Kentucky College of Agriculture, Food and Environment study. In the study led by Jian Shi, UK assistant professor in the Department
by Rhiannon Branch (Brownfield Ag News) A University of Illinois ag economist says he does not expect a bounce back from ethanol demand destruction anytime soon. “I think it’s going to be a long, hard road to recovery.” Todd Hubbs tells Brownfield COVID-19 related stay at home orders have dropped ethanol production
(Renewable Fuels Association) As the COVID-19 pandemic and crude oil glut continue to ravage world fuel markets, U.S. ethanol sales in 2020 could fall by more than $10 billion and the industry’s contribution to gross domestic product (GDP) could drop by nearly one-third, according to a new analysis released today by the Renewable
by Noppadon Sathitsuksanoh (University of Louisville/Biofuels Diges) In Kentucky, Louisville scientists add value to solid wastes from the hemp product industry. Their research exploits a simple process that transforms the waste into levulinic acid, a valuable chemical and a cement additive for green concrete. … As society moves toward greater

Distillers Grains Technology Council (DGTC) is again hosting the 25th Anniversary Distillers Grains Symposium to be held May 16-18, 2021 where it started in bourbon country, Louisville, Kentucky. This 24th Annual National Symposium will provide the latest information and issues on distillers grains marketing/merchandising, animal nutrition, processing technologies, and governmental
by Matthew Keck (Louisville Cardinal) Joshua Spurgeon, a University of Louisville renewable energy researcher, won the National Science Foundation (NSF) CAREER Award. Along with the award, he will receive a $500,000 grant from the NSF that will go towards research and education over the next five years. Spurgeon is theme leader
(Renewable Fuels Association) The 2020 season of the Crappie Masters Tournament Trail begins later this week, with the Renewable Fuels Association and the National Corn Growers Association signed on as co-title sponsors for the fourth consecutive year. The first tournament begins Friday, Jan. 31 at St. Johns River in Deland, Fla.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Washington, the U.S. Department of Energy has selected 35 projects totaling $73 million for bioenergy research and development support. Funded through the DOE’s Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy, these projects will help reduce the price of drop-in biofuels, lower the cost of biopower,
by Todd Neeley (DTN Progressive Farmer) The farmer-owned CountryMark cooperative and fuel refinery is caught in the middle of the small-refinery exemption controversy. The company operates in Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Ohio and Kentucky — most of its customers at more than 100 retail stations are farmers and rural communities that have
by Mario Parker and Jennifer A Dlouhy (Bloomberg/Investors Business Daily) Discussions aimed at breaking logjam over biofuel plan; Friday deadline issued for ideas on potential compromise — Trump administration officials are squeezing biofuel and oil refining executives to agree to a plan to bolster corn-based ethanol and soy-based biodiesel. In
(SCS Energy/Biomass Magazine) In August 2019, SCS Energy broke ground on construction of a 4,000-scfm landfill gas to renewable natural gas (RNG) plant in Indianapolis. Indy High Btu LLC engaged SCS Energy to build the RNG plant under an engineer/procure/construct (EPC) agreement. Indy High Btu is jointly owned by Kinetrex Energy,
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) Governors representing Iowa, Indiana, Kentucky, Nebraska and North Dakota recently sent a letter to U.S. EPA Administrator Andrew Wheeler urging the agency to clarify biogenic CO2 is not a pollutant subject to regulation under the Clean Air Act. “We respectively request that you prioritize regulatory reform
(Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas/Biomass Magazine) The Coalition for Renewable Natural Gas (RNG Coalition) announced today (July 29, 2019) that the North American renewable natural gas (RNG) industry has reached the 100 facility benchmark this summer. With the addition of three recent operational facilities, the 101 RNG production sites across the

In 2018, young Sunrise leaders put the Green New Deal on the map and permanently changed the conversation on climate policy in this country. The political establishment is scrambling to keep up with thousands of people across the country who are eager to take action and bring the promise of
by Mario Parker and Michael Hirtzer (Bloomberg) Midwest rail lines have washed out, delaying biofuel shipments; Gasoline futures rise to five-month high before peak season — Flood waters spilling across the U.S. Midwest have swamped ethanol shipments, disrupting refineries and threatening to push up gasoline pump prices ahead of the summer
(Office of Senator Chuck Grassley (R-IA)) Today (February 27, 2019), U.S. Senators Rand Paul of Kentucky and Chuck Grassley of Iowa introduced the Fuel Choice and Deregulation Act of 2019(S.581), legislation that would remove burdensome regulations on domestic energy production. “The Fuel Choice and Deregulation Act provides new economic opportunity for Kentucky farmers
by Cici Zhang (Chemical and Engineering News) Increasing the fatty acids in crops’ seeds, leaves, and stems could make biofuels more economically viable — … Plant scientist Heike Sederoff of North Carolina State University, however, is very familiar with the oils that camelina offers. The highly concentrated fatty acids produced by
by Tonya S. Grace (Kentucky New Era) Bill Northey talked ethanol and hemp while stopping in Christian County on his way to Missouri. Northey, confirmed in February as the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s new under secretary for farm production and conservation, visited the local community on Wednesday with U.S. Congressman James
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) In Spain, BIOCON-CO2, a new €7 million EU Horizon 2020-funded research project, has recently kicked-off with intentions of supporting EU leadership in carbon dioxide (CO2) re-use technologies. BIOCON-CO2 aims to re-use excess CO2 produced from the iron, steel, cement and electric power industries to create value-added chemicals and
by Betsy Lillian (NGT News) Waste Management has unveiled a $30 million renewable natural gas (RNG) facility in Louisville, Ky. The new Outer Loop Recycling and Disposal Facility processes up to 5,000 standard cubic feet per minute of incoming landfill gas and turns it into usable RNG. This equates to about 2,500 mmbtu
(Attis Industries) Florida, Georgia, Pennsylvania, New York, Kentucky, and Minnesota Present Most Competitive Options — Attis Industries, Inc. (NASDAQ: ATIS) (the “Company” or “Attis”), a diversified innovation and technology holding company, today announced its approval of its lead sites for acquisition and construction of its planned biorefining facilities. Attis has accumulated a portfolio of
by Greg Thompson (White Energy/Renewable Fuels Association) This past weekend in Emory, Texas, about 75 miles from Dallas, fishermen and women from across the country descended upon Lake Fork for a stop on the Crappie Masters National Tournament Trail. The winners, the Ozark Rods Team of David Cox and Steve Hockett, took
(University of Kentucky) The University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research (UK CAER) and other community partners will once again be taking a Thanksgiving leftover and giving it new life as a renewable fuel. Fayette County’s annual Gobble Grease Toss will be held Friday, November 24 from 10 a.m. to
(University of Kentucky) The University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research’s (CAER) Biofuels and Environmental Catalysis Group has received a $2 million U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) grant to develop new emissions technology for low-temperature gasoline. The project is titled “Research and Development of Novel Adsorber Technology to Address Hydrocarbon and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) The DOE completed an illuminating workshop on Carbon Capture and Sequestration with relation to algae-based technologies, and The Digest has prepared a selection of key slides presented by AquaFiber, Pacific Northwest National Lab, University of South Florida, Algenol, Montana State University, University of Toledo, NREL,
by Grace Schneider (Courier-Journal) After a recent boost in funding, the Conn Center for Renewable Energy Research at the University of Louisville is delving into the science and economics of commercializing industrial hemp. It’s a new line of work for the center, located inside the Speed School’s Ernst Hall, but it matches
by Samantha Oller (CSP Daily News) Have I got a fuel for you! It is higher octane than E10, giving you greater bang for your buck. It features even more environmentally friendly, domestically produced ethanol. And it is actually a few cents cheaper—cheaper!—than regular, old regular-grade gasoline. Its name? Unleaded
by Susanna Retka-Schill (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Sheetz, Thortons executives give careful thought to strategically offering the new fuel. — Almost weekly, another announcement is made about a retail location offering E15. The rollouts, large and small, are indicators E15 is gaining steam and, in late July, HWRT Oil Co. announced
by Jodi Helmer (The Guardian) As the demand for tobacco declines in the US, farmers in Virginia are experimenting with turning the crop into viable biofuel — … One two-acre plot stands apart from the rest, its flavour and nicotine content are irrelevant. The June and October harvests are mechanised and
(The Daily Independent) … After diesel students complete the online biodiesel course sponsored by the Kentucky Soybean Board, instructors and students often want to know: “What can I learn about soy biodiesel next?” After being asked that question several times, biodiesel education coordinator Les Pike, a retired diesel instructor, put forth a
(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. The briefing, hosted by Fuels America, provides an important opportunity
by Dave Evensen (University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign) Research finds where bioenergy crops would grow best while minimizing detrimental effects on aquatic ecosystems — … Researchers at the University of Illinois used detailed models to examine impacts on water quantity and quality in soils that would occur if existing vegetation was replaced
(University of Kentucky) Algae research at the University of Kentucky Center for Applied Energy Research (CAER) is going global. The Algae and Biofuels Laboratory at CAER is partnering with Lianhenghui Investment Company to construct a five-acre algae production facility in Zhengzhou, China. The facility will feature the center’s novel photobioreactor
(Algae Industry Magazine) In any industry, a few incredible people make an enormous impact. The algae industry is fortunate to honor Algae Ambassadors that are great scientists and industry leaders. They are also superb educators for our next generation of algae scientists and business leaders. The Algae Ambassadors have inspired
by Karen B. Roberts (University of Delaware/Biomass Magazine) … At the University of Delaware, associate scientist Jennifer Stewart is working to create sustainable algae-based biofuels that could reduce carbon dioxide and other harmful emissions in the atmosphere. … Many scientists have proposed growing algae on power plant smokestacks to neutralize their emissions,
by Ray Defenbaugh (Ethanol Producer Magazine/Prime the Pump/Growth Energy) Prime the pump, an effort to grow the ethanol market to accelerate the build-out of higher blend retail infrastructure, has had tremendous success, writes Ray Defenbaugh. — The ethanol industry is going on the offense to bring higher blends into the
by Steve Riggs (Renewable Fuels Association) … As I readied to a buy a new car this summer, though, I added two other important items that I think we should all consider: Does it increase our country’s energy independence, and is it cleaner environmentally? Those last selling points proved to be
by Deborah Yetter (Courier-Journal) A spirited group of protesters marched more than 20 blocks along West Broadway Sunday afternoon to show their opposition to a proposed plant in the area that would produce methane by composting spent grain used to produce whiskey at a nearby distillery. “To put a methane gas
by Erin Voegele (Biomass Magazine) The U.S. Department of Energy’s National Energy Technology Laboratory recently announced it has selected 16 projects to receive funding through its Carbon Capture Program, including two focused on algae. According to the DOE, the program funds development and testing of transformational carbon dioxide capture systems for
by Ryan Alexander (Floyd County Times) It’s a timeless story of teenage romance: pledging love, abandoning reason, rebelling against authority. No, this isn’t the plot of a John Hughes movie. Instead, I’m talking about Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack’s love affair with ethanol. … Under Vilsack’s guidance, the Department of Agriculture
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … 31 Algae players, what do they make now, and how are they making out? … Here’s our company by company guide to 31 of the players on the scene — project developers and technology suppliers. … AlgaEnergy AlgaEnergy is a technology-based company specialized in the field
(Growth Energy) Following the introduction of S. 889, the Fuel Choice and Deregulation Act, legislation by Senator Rand Paul (R-KY) and Chuck Grassley (R-IA), which contains a provision to extend the Reid Vapor Pressure (RVP) volatility waiver to E15, Tom Buis, CEO of Growth Energy, issued the following statement: “We
(The Interior Journal/Central Kentucky News) … Biodiesel in general and soy-based biodiesel in particular are great choices, but unfortunately farmers in many regions of Kentucky have a hard time finding a distributor that sells B20 (20 percent biodiesel) or higher blends. The Kentucky Soybean Board is suggesting that farmers ask for
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) A few weeks ago, a reader question sparked an interesting search for answers. That one comment has led to several stories and blogs at our website. In mid-December, a reader asked me why, as opposed to some of the high E85 prices I wrote
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Bunnies, liposuction fat, Prince Charles’ leftover wine, day-old whale, the human poo bus, fire ants dipped in hexane, old beer, raging fireballs, vibrating blobs, dope, and even the New Orleans Times-Picayune. Take your pick and, yep, it’s all true, as the Digest discovers. If you’re
(US Department of Energy) Last week concluded the beta run of the Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) sponsored BioenergizeME Virtual Science Fair—a high school competition that has students create and share infographics about bioenergy concepts. Student teams from five high schools in Kentucky, Pennsylvania, Oregon, and Texas teamed up to create
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) The biofuels mobile education center is a 45-foot long trailer filled with interactive touch screen computers, educational displays, movies and more, to educate visitors about ethanol and other biofuels. … Curt Froyen, project manager, tells EPM: TRAILER WITHOUT BORDERS: The biofuels mobile education center
(University of Illinois/Ethanol Producer Magazine) Farmers interested in bioenergy crops now have a resource to help them determine which kind of bioenergy crop would grow best in their regions and what kind of harvest to expect. Researchers at the University of Illinois have published a study identifying yield zones for
by Ron Kotrba (Biodiesel Magazine) Producers and technology providers, including Pacific Biodiesel, Kelley Green Biofuel, Piedmont Biofuels, WB Services and Crown Iron Works, discuss procedural and design elements to mitigate risk in biodiesel manufacturing. A philosophical problem exists when an industry whose mission is to improve humanity through environmental stewardship and
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … It is imperative that several of the commercial advanced and cellulosic ethanol and renewable fuel projects succeed in being cost competitive and returning dividends to their shareholders. While most businesses and consumers want good stewardship and domestic energy security, the industry will overcome its skeptics
(University of Wyoming) After graduating from Northern Kentucky University with bachelor’s degrees in chemistry and accounting, Allen Morris decided to pursue graduate studies at the University of Wyoming for two primary reasons: the Rocky Mountain lifestyle, and an attractive stipend from UW’s School of Energy Resources (SER). Two years later, Morris is
by Joanna Schroeder (DomesticFuel.com) Crowdfunding is coming to biofuels. On August 3, 2014, Bio Revolution America launched a 45 dayIndiegogo crowdfunding campaign to fund its biofuels projects in Appalachia and within one week is reporting reaching 30 percent of their goal. The company has developed a Bio extractor machine that has they believe
by Kayla Vanover (WBKO) … “Ethanol being 105-octane, you can blend it was 84-octane base gasoline and get your 87-octane. That is going to make gasoline cheaper because ethanol is cheaper than gas,” said Mick Henderson, General Manager (Commonwealth Agri-Energy). Although the ethanol plant is in Hopkinsville, the distribution center is closer
by Steve Dale (My Pet World/Chicago Tribune) Current and future trends in food for pets and people were among topics addressed at the 30th Alltech Annual International Symposium May 18-21 in Lexington, Ky. The theme of the conference was “What If?” suggesting anything is possible through innovation and technology. Over 2,000
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) … We first started tracking hemp back in 2009, when a 43-acre biomass trial launched in California that features hemp as a feedstock. The notoriety of hemp’s cousin, marijuana, has created both passionate supporters and opponents of the feedstock, which for centuries provided useful by-products such
by Bruce Dorminey (Renewable Fuel World) US farmers are exploring the use of energy beets to produce ethanol. Requiring less water and containing more sugar than corn, they could be just what the market needs. Corn remains the undisputed ethanol king. But a growing number of U.S. sugar beet farmers,
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Algae has been touted as the ultimate platform for fuels, chemicals, nutraceuticals, proteins — even cancer therapies. There’s been a rate of progress that would impress any devotee of Moore’s Law — and a series of wacky claims that would impress any devotee of P.T.
by Heather Lammers (National Renewable Energy Laboratory/Renewable Energy World Magazine) Thanks to newer and faster supercomputers, today’s computer simulations are opening hidden vistas to researchers in all areas of science. These powerful machines are used for everything from understanding how proteins work to answering questions about how galaxies began. Sometimes the data
by Joseph Gerth (Courier-Journal) Two years ago, U.S. Sen. Mitch McConnell took to the Senate floor to deride President Barack Obama for a speech that called for developing biofuel from algae — dismissing it as nothing more than a “pipe dream.” “I think the American people realize that a president
by Mike James (The Independent) Looking at the tiny vial of golden soybean oil on his desk reminds Shannon McCarty that technical education must keep up with technology. In this case, it means the diesel mechanics course he teaches at Ashland Community and Technical College has to keep abreast of
(KYForward) Most sweet sorghum in Kentucky becomes syrup and goes on biscuits, but a new group of state lawmakers, experts and farmers has other plans. Instead of on biscuits, they want to put sorghum into our gas tanks. The Special Subcommittee on Energy in Frankfort met in Frankfort with producers
(Biofuels Center of North Carolina) Celebrating 25 years at N.C. State University, the N.C. Solar Center continues its commitment to outreach, demonstration, and deployment of technology and policy solutions for a sustainable energy future. One project led by the Clean Transportation team aims to enhance the distribution and use of
(PR NewsWire/Digital Journal/Domestic Fuel Solutions Group) From Day One the Domestic Fuel Solutions Group (DFSG) has been advocating for reasonable RFS reform. Congress is taking notice. At the end of two days of recent House Energy & Commerce Committee hearings on the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS), Chairman Fred Upton (R-MI) and Sub-Committee
by Jennifer A. Dlouhy (Fuel Fix) The American Petroleum Institute on Monday launched a new round of advertising taking aim at an eight-year-old renewable fuels mandate it wants Congress to repeal. The new television ad features everyday people behind the wheel, at a car service station and stranded on the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Miscanthus, sorghum, switchgrass, jatropha, camelina, carinata, and arundo. Who’s doing what to bring these crops to scale — and who are the potential big winners? … Just when you start feeling great about bagasse or stover, you realize that supply is limited by global demand for
(Algae Biomass Organization) The algae industry is moving faster than many people suspect. To help demonstrate how far along so many of ABO’s members are we recently created the Algae Industry Project Book, an illustrated guide of some of the most advanced algae facilities in the United States. Inside you’ll find
by Dan Dickson (Business Lexington) … “[Switchgrass is] one of four or five native, warm-season grasses used on farms in Kentucky. Those grasses were here when the first European settlers came to Kentucky,” said Ray Smith, University of Kentucky extension forage specialist in the College of Agriculture. “They’ll grow in a
(United Sorghum Checkoff Program) The Sorghum Checkoff in collaboration with the NCERC at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (formerly the National Corn-to-Ethanol Research Center) is pleased to announce a successful bench-scale evaluation of sweet sorghum juice sugars with corn mash for the production of fuel ethanol. This study expands upon a
(G-Oil Green Earth Technologies/PR NewsWire) Every day is Earth Day at Lindsey Wilson College, a 2,700 student collection of campuses in Kentucky, Ohio, Tennessee, Virginia and West Virginia. Looking to become a pioneer in developing truly green campuses, the school’s leadership and Operations Manager have found the school’s green initiatives
(WCHS/Associated Press) Work on a new $15 million glycerin refinery at Owensboro Grain Co.’s facility is set for completion by the fall and in full production by January. Company Vice President John Wright told the Owensboro Messenger-Inquirer that the facility will turn pure glycerin into a variety of uses in
by Janet Patton (Kentucky.com) Kentucky’s debate on hemp so far has centered on the marijuana question and the market question. But Roger Ford has one of his own: What about the energy question? Ford, CEO of Patriot BioEnergy in Pikeville, said hemp could be a huge boon to the
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) …Now, yeast is a fungi, but fungi as a Kingdom is a lot broader than our friend yeast and, like Rodney Dangerfield, it been getting, by and large, no respect, no respect. Researchers have for years been using them as a kind of biological grenade
(Associated Press/Jackson Sun) A Tennessee producer of sustainable feedstock has hit an important milestone by delivering its product to a plant in western Kentucky. Officials say Delta BioRenewables, which is located in Memphis, Tenn., delivered a commercial-sized batch of sweet sorghum juice this month to the Commonwealth Agri-Energy plant
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) An alternative energy company looking to build multiple energy beet-to-biofuel plants in Kentucky recently became the first corporation to join the Kentucky Hemp Growers Cooperative Association. Although federal rules currently prohibit the growth of hemp in the U.S., Patriot Bioenergy Corp. sees value in
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) It’s been years of struggle to get cellulosic feedstock supply chains downfield. Now, companies like Woodland Biofuels, Sweetwater Energy, Ceres, Delta BioRenewables and Commonwealth Agro-Energy are moving the chains. …This week in Canada, the MaRS Cleantech Fund announced the completion of a venture deal with Woodland Biofuels,
by Kari Lydersen (Midwest Energy News) …Commercial-scale development of aviation biofuels is still in the early stages, and as experts explained at the Airports Going Green conference in Chicago earlier in November, viable aviation biofuel industries would look significantly different in different regions of the country. With growing competition for government research dollars
(US Department of Energy) Today (November 28, 2012), Energy Secretary Steven Chu announced 66 cutting-edge research projects selected by the Energy Department’s Advanced Research Projects Agency – Energy (ARPA-E) to receive a total of $130 million in funding through its “OPEN 2012” program. ARPA-E seeks out transformational, breakthrough technologies that
by Tim Thornberry (Business Lexington) …Producing biofuels on the farm, however, is a bit different and is the focus of a relatively new project being led by the University of Kentucky. Sue Nokes, professor and department chair of biosystems and agricultural engineering, is heading up the research. She said the
(ACORE) The American Council On Renewable Energy (ACORE) released the 2012 edition of its report, Renewable Energy in the 50 States, as an interactive, online resource. Compiling updated financial data, resource potentials, market and policy information in one easily-accessed, online format, the report is intended to be an executive summary
(PR NewsWire/Louisville Biodiesel Cooperative) The Louisville Biodiesel Cooperative and St. Francis School are pleased to announce a partnership to recycle Waste Cooking Oil. Co-founded by St. Francis School parent Christian Thalacker, the Louisville Biodiesel Cooperative collects used cooking oil & grease to recycle into clean biodiesel fuel that is cheaper, less polluting, and
(WYMT-TV) Pikeville-based Patriot Bioenergy Corporation has announced it will construct an ethanol plant in Whitley County, creating more than one hundred jobs. For years now, ethanol has been used as an additive in gasoline to help offset the cost of imported oil. …”What we have been doing over the last
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) …Like many states (or countries) that have limited oil reserves or reserves that are economically unfeasible to extract at this time – the path to energy independence lies generally in Missouri’s substantial “above-ground oil fields” – which is to say, in her considerable biobased resources.
by Jim Lane (Biofuels Digest) Launching today – and stretching into early Fall – the Algae Biomass Organization is coordinating a series of events billed as “The “Summer of Algae II” to raise awareness about the promise of the algae industry to create jobs, domestic fuels, and other food and
by Joanna Schroeder (DomesticFuel.com) Alltech has installed a 60-foot ethanol distillation tower at its production facility in Springfield, Ky. The plant produces natural animal health and nutrition products. The company invested $4 million dollars in new yeast-production technology, a core of their nutrition products. The new system has the ability
(US Department of Agriculture) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced payments for 125 advanced Biofuel producers across the country to support the production and expansion of advanced biofuels from a wide variety of non-food sources, including waste products. “Advanced biofuels are a key component of President Obama’s ‘all-of-the-above’ energy strategy
(Business Lexington) Add “energy beets” to the cash crop list for Kentucky farmers. The high-sugar energy beet, a variety bred to serve the fuel/energy market, is now growing on test plots in Whitley and other Kentucky counties. Kentucky-based Patriot Bio-Energy Corporation plans to use them to boost agriculture and help
(The Commercial Appeal) BioDimensions Delta BioRenewables (BDBR) will install a sweet sorghum processing facility at AgriCenter International after an investment from Epec Biofuels Holdings. …“We consider industrial sugar to be ‘Nature’s Crude Oil’ and are making a commitment to help BDDR perfect its sugar platform, which is the foundation for
by Dan Modlin (WKYUFM) A firm based in Mt. Sterling, Kentucky is hoping more farmers raise sorghum to use in ethanol fuels production in the future. Southeast Biofuels has completed the first phase of a project that resulted in a million gallons of ethanol being produced from two thousand acres
by Feoshia Henderson (SoapboxMedia) Fueled by a US EPA grant, University of Cincinnati faculty and students are leading an effort to transform cooking grease into biodiesel on a regional scale. This project is a collaboration among UC, the Cincinnati Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD) and Bluegrass Biodiesel of Falmouth, Ky. The partners will test three methods to
(EurekAlert/Iowa State University) Genetic mutations to cellulose in plants could improve the conversion of cellulosic biomass into biofuels, according to a research team that included two Iowa State University chemists. The team recently published its findings in the online early edition of the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) Two companies develop new technologies aimed at revolutionizing fermentation Understood since man first made beer, fermentation is an age-old process that has been developed to the point where it’s nearly impossible to improve on the efficiency of the process. “It’s maxed out,” says Garth
by Scott Sloan (Kentucky.com/Herald-Leader) The Kentucky Economic Development Finance Authority board approved tax incentives Thursday for companies, including Maker’s Mark Distillery, F.B. Purnell Sausage and Hitachi, that are considering new investments in the state. The approval of tax incentives outlines the state’s commitment to a project should it occur in
(PR NewsWire) The Louisville Biodiesel Cooperative, the Louisville/Jefferson County Metropolitan Sewer District (MSD) and The Green Triangle in the 9th District are pleased to announce a partnership to recycle Waste Cooking Oil. The first recycling station is: Louisville Biodiesel at 1501 Portland Avenue – Louisville, Kentucky 40203. Contact christian@LouisvilleBiodieselCoop.org and (502) 727-5673 to walk you
by Holly Jessen (Ethanol Producer Magazine) One World Clean Energy Inc. has secured its first memorandum of understanding to construct and commission a $115 million Integrated Biorefinery in South Africa, where it would produce10 megawatts of electricity, 10 MMgy of ethanol and 10 MMgy biodiesel. Bill Bivins, CEO of One
(US Department of Agriculture) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today (September 27, 2011) announced that USDA will make payments to more than 160 energy producers in 41 states to support and ensure the production and expansion of advanced biofuels. “Renewable energy production will create tens of thousands of direct, American jobs;
by Luke Geiver (Biodiesel Magazine) …Biodiesel co-ops are doing their part in the continued growth of the industry one 5-gallon jug of waste vegetable oil (WVO) biodiesel at a time. If the 5 MMgy producers are working to provide an advanced biofuel for mass use, it’s the 5-gallon folks who
by Steve Irvine (The Birmingham News) The Ohio-based company seeking to put a pilot plant in Hoover that would harvest oil from algae to form an alternative fuel didn’t receive the $45 million grant it was seeking to build the plant. The SouthEast Region Algae Consortium, a group of scientists,
by Chad Bishop (Bowling Green Daily News) Cars using corn-based ethanol in Sparta’s inaugural Sprint Cup race A NASCAR Sprint Cup Series race has finally found itself in Kentucky. And when the lights go on tonight in Sparta, the sport will present to fans one of its newest initiatives nearly
by Luke Geiver (Biorefining Magazine) Botryococcus braunii, an ancient strain of algae more than 500 million years old that researchers say is responsible for creating oil and coal shale deposits, may not grow fast enough for advanced biofuels consideration, but its genetic blueprints still have a high value. Joe
(AP/Bloomberg/The Washington Post) If a $5 billion-a-year federal subsidy that helped build the ethanol industry comes to an end, it will likely mean two things, experts who have followed its development say. First, it doesn’t guarantee an end to the high prices that corn farmers have enjoyed and livestock producers
(Diesel Technology Forum) A near-capacity room of Congressional staff members, industry and energy representatives gathered on Capitol Hill on May 13th to hear a diverse group of speakers – including U.S. Rep. Roscoe Bartlett – discuss clean diesel technology and renewable diesel’s role in “Fueling the Future in a Green
(National Biodiesel Board/PRNewsWire) What can Brown do for you? For a start, it’s making your world greener by using cleaner burning biodiesel. The United Parcel Service began using biodiesel blends at its most vital hub in Louisville, Kentucky this month. “There is a finite amount of petroleum-based fuel available from our planet
by Mary Meehan (Lexington Herald-Leader) The University of Kentucky has received a $6.9 million federal grant to help reduce America’s reliance on imported oil, one of eight awards in the country. “It’s going to be big,” said UK’s principal investigator, Sue Nokes, a professor in the department of biosystems and
Projects will help develop sustainable, renewable biofuels in the U.S. As part of the Obama Administration’s comprehensive plan to address rising gas prices, U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack and U.S. Energy Secretary Steven Chu today announced a total of $47 million to fund eight research and development projects that will
(U.S. Department of Agriculture) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced research grants awarded to spur production of bioenergy and biobased products that will lead to the development of sustainable regional systems and help create jobs. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Director Roger
(Alltech) Alltech, a global leader in natural animal nutrition, cut the ribbon on its $200 million Alltech Algae plant in Winchester, Kentucky. Alltech Algae is a state-of-the-art algae fermentation facility that was acquired in 2010 from Martek Bioscience Corporation for approximately $14 million and has been renovated in the past few
(WKYT/AP) The Kentucky Biofuels for Schools Program is offering grants to high schools in the state that design projects to teach, produce and use biofuels in their schools and community. The Kentucky Biofuels for Schools Program is offering grants to high schools in the state that design projects to teach, produce and
(USDA) Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack today announced new investments in 33 states to support the production and usage of advanced biofuels. Vilsack highlighted these projects as ways the Obama Administration is working to reduce the nation’s dependence on foreign oil by creating alternative energy sources and promoting economic development and
by Robyn L. Minor (Bowling Green Daily News) Officials studying logistical challenges facing biofuel progress With gas prices in December seeing the biggest jump in 18 months, consideration of alternative fuel development moves to the forefront. “Gas price certainly reinvigorates the conversation,” said state Sen. David Givens, R-Greensburg. “The advances
(Convenience Store News) Thorntons is now offering E-85 Flex Fuel in 36 store locations — seven in Illinois, 11 in Indiana, 11 in Kentucky and seven in Tennessee, the company reported. READ MORE
(AP/The Ledger Independent) A new program to explore the viability of biofuels is seeking to establish 700 acres of switchgrass fields and is offering financial assistance to Kentucky farmers. The project follows another that began in 2007 by the Kentucky Forage and Grassland Council and University of Kentucky Plant and Soil