Weather-related problems that have caused damage to refineries in the Midwest have highlighted the need to diversify our nation’s transportation fuel needs. This issue is not only important for consumers who are feeling the pinch at the gas pump, but also for our country’s overall energy security. This edition of “Fill up, Feel Good” discusses ethanol’s benefits in terms of …
Bioenergy Booming in Oregon
A new study from Oregon State University says Oregon’s biofuels future remains pretty bright. This story from the OSU web site says renewable energy, ethanol and biodiesel in particular, will become a $2.5 billion industry in the state over the next 20 years: “We knew there was a lot of interest in this area and opportunities for growth, but it …
E85 Viper Beats Record
220.7 MPH is the new world record for a street car in the standing mile, achieved by a modified Dodge Viper running on 85 percent ethanol fuel, proving power and performance do not have to be sacrificed for environmental responsibility. The 1200 horsepower E85 Viper rocketed from a standstill to 220.7 MPH in one mile, taking 27.43 seconds at the …
Midwest Facing Fuel Shortages
In an effort to address low gasoline and diesel supplies caused by recent refinery outages, Iowa Governor Chet Culver has signed a proclamation to temporarily lift regulatory provisions that limit the number of hours gasoline and diesel truck drivers can be on the road, according to the governor’s office. Ethanol and biodiesel are also eligible for hauling subject to the …
Third POET Plant for Indiana
POET officials broke ground Friday for their third ethanol production facility in Indiana, this one near North Manchester. According to POET, the 65 million gallon per year facility will be one of the most environmentally friendly ethanol production facilities in operation today. It will utilize proprietary technology from POET, like the patent-pending BPX process that eliminates cooking in ethanol production …
Florida Follows California Energy Lead
Florida Governor Charlie Crist signed three Executive Orders Friday initiating Florida’s energy policy. The signing ceremony concluded the Serve to Preserve Florida Summit on Global Climate Change held in Miami this week. According to the governor’s press office, the Executive Orders carry out Governor Crist’s commitment to reducing Florida’s greenhouse gases and increasing energy efficiency. As a result, Florida will …
AFVi to Host Biofuels Forum in Vegas
The Alternative Fuel Vehicle Institute (AFVi) is hosting a one-day forum in Las Vegas on September 20, 2007 to provide information so that those who manage vehicle fleets and make the decisions to incorporate biodiesel and E85 ethanol. Presenters include leading executives from vehicle and engine manufacturing companies and suppliers, users of biofuels, and high-ranking officials from federal, state, and …
Refinery Damage Impacts Gas Prices
Gas prices are on the rise again. Since July 1, gas prices have increased on average of more than 40 cents due in part to diminished refining capacity. Flooding and lightening related fire incidences have closed refineries in certain parts of the nation. This is giving some fuel suppliers the jitters, like Gary Wright, vice president of Wright Oil, Inc., …
Summit on Energy Security
The 2nd Annual National Summit on Energy Security is taking place today at the National Press Club in Washington DC, presented by 2020 Vision. This year’s summit has the theme of “National Security and America’s Addiction to Carbon: Solutions to Oil Dependence and Climate Change” and features Senator Richard Lugar (R-IN), Senator Barbara Boxer (D-CA), Senator Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), among …
Letter Urges Dropping “We Can’t with Ethanol” Attitude
I don’t usually post opinion pieces, but I saw this letter-to-the-editor and thought it rose to the level of a post for Domestic Fuel. Glenn Gryka of Mesa sent this letter to the Arizona Republic: Ethanol is not cost effective, so we are told. Infrastructure is not available. Ethanol can’t be transported. Yada, yada, yada. We import almost 50 percent …