GAO Spotlights Ethanol Production as Prime Carbon Capture Opportunity
by Ann Lewis (Renewable Fuels Association) Late last week, the U.S. Government Accountability Office published a technology assessment on carbon capture, utilization, and storage (CCUS), drawing on findings from peer-reviewed literature, a meeting of experts, and stakeholder interviews that included the Renewable Fuels Association.
Overall, the research found that out of all the potential sources of carbon dioxide for CCUS that GAO examined—power generation, cement, iron and steel, direct air capture, and ethanol—ethanol is the most promising. At a time when decarbonization is essential for a climate-friendly future, the GAO report makes clear that policymakers should embrace ethanol as the best available near-term opportunity for transformative and sustainable CCUS. GAO reached the following conclusions about ethanol’s viability as a source for CCUS:
Ethanol Biorefineries Have the Highest CO2 Concentration and Purity
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Ethanol Offers the Lowest Cost of Capture
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The Ethanol Industry Has a High Number of Potential Capture Sources
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Ethanol CCUS Has the Highest Technology Readiness Score
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While not mentioned in the GAO report, it’s worth noting that CO2 emissions from ethanol fermentation are biogenic, meaning they come from natural, renewable sources. The CO2 released during fermentation is the same CO2 that was recently sucked out of the atmosphere by the corn plant via photosynthesis. That means permanent sequestration of CO2 from fermentation results in permanent removal of atmospheric CO2.
The GAO also identified policy options to address the challenges and benefits of CCUS technologies. Key recommendations include the development of technology-neutral standards, including a national low carbon fuel standard, standardized lifecycle analysis guidelines, and support of community engagement to credibly reinforce the advantages of CCUS like local job creation, economic development, and climate change mitigation. Many of GAO’s suggestions align with and reinforce RFA’s existing policy objectives for CCUS.
As Congress evaluates future climate-smart policies that can help the economy achieve net zero emissions, this report makes a strong case that the ethanol industry should play a central role in scaling up carbon management. READ MORE
TECHNOLOGY ASSESSMENT: Decarbonization Status, Challenges, and Policy Options for Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (Government Accountability Office)
