Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) highlighted the benefits of next-generation biofuels during a tour of the Alpena Biorefinery in the northern part of her state.

“This innovative partnership is producing Michigan-grown fuel that has the potential to spur new job growth and help reduce our dependence on foreign oil,” said Stabenow, who chairs the Senate Agriculture Committee which just sent a new farm bill to the full Senate that includes initiatives to expand biofuel innovation and production. “New, advanced biofuels right here in Alpena – that’s a pretty big deal,” she said.

The Alpena Biorefinery is a partnership between American Process Inc. (API) and Decorative Panels International (DPI) that uses advanced technology to convert hardboard waste into cellulosic ethanol. “DPI is committed to continuing the collaborative efforts with API to leverage and integrate their proprietary technology in converting our waste stream to a marketable biofuel,” said Tim Clark, President of Decorative Panels International. “APIs success in operating the biorefinery will support our objectives for sustainable manufacturing and environmental stewardship.”

The Alpena Biorefinery is expected to start commercial production in June.