New Oilheat Research & Training Facility Opened

Joanna Schroeder June 8, 2016

A new research and training facility designed specifically for oiheating fuels and renewables such as Bioheat, has opened in Planview, New York on Long Island with a grand opening celebration and tour. The 3,500 square foot facility is operated by the National Oilheat Research Alliance (NORA) along with the New York Oil Heating Association (NYOHA) and the Oil Heat Comfort Corp (OHCC). The facility is known as both the NORA Liquid Fuels Research and Development Laboratory and the NYOHA/OHCC Technical Training Institute.

Kevin Rooney, John Huber, Dr. Tom Butcher and Rocco Lacertosa

The program will be overseen by energy researcher Dr. Thomas A. Butcher who will also participate in ongoing research on heating equipment and liquid fuels. In addition, John Levy, who now serves as director of education for each of the oilheat associations, will be developing and directing a variety of educational programs including Oilheat technician training.

The building features a 20-student classroom, working lab with live-firing boilers and electronic testing and analysis equipment, offices and a boardroom. “It is really exciting to have a bricks-and-mortar presence of our own that we can all use together,” said NORA President John Huber. This gives us a great opportunity to connect with people working in the industry and help them serve heating oil customers more effectively.”

NORA Chairperson Allison Heaney and President of New York City-based Skaggs-Walsh, enthused that the center will tremendously benefit the industry. “It is very exciting to have a research facility where Dr. Tom Butcher can continue with his great testing of Bioheat fuel and continue to assure that we are selling fuel of the highest quality. I also think it is amazing the both Long Island and New York City now have this space where we can bring our technicians together and train them to deliver even better service for our customers. It’s a beautiful facility with boilers ready to fire that will allow students to work hands on with the equipment. I’m very excited to have it.”

Biodiesel, Bioheat

Alaska Airlines Flies with Gevo’s Isobutaol

Joanna Schroeder June 8, 2016

An Alaska Airlines jet is fueled with renewable Gevo biofuel on Tuesday June 7, 2016, in advance of two demonstration flights powered by the first alcohol-to-jet fuel made from sustainable U.S. corn.

An Alaska Airlines commercial plane flew through the skies yesterday powered by Gevo’s renewable alcohol to jet fuel that meets all ASTM requirements (D7566). One flight began in Seattle and flew to San Francisco International Airport then on to Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport. While ASTM has approved up to a 30 percent biojet fuel blend, the Alaska airlines flights used a 20 percent fuel blend.

“Flying a commercial flight with our jet fuel made from renewable resources has been a vision of ours for many years, and it has taken many years of work to get this far,” said Pat Gruber, Gevo CEO. We believe our technology has the potential to be the lowest-cost, renewable carbon-based jet fuel, given the efficacy of our technology. We look forward to moving forward with Alaska, and others in the airline industry, to make renewable jet fuel widely successful as a product that substitutes for fossil fuels, and ultimately helps to reduce carbon.”

Sustainably grown U.S. corn is converted into renewable alcohol-to-jet fuel by Gevo, Inc.
Ingrid Barrentine/Alaska Airlines

According to the International Civil Aviation Organization, the airline industry contributes about 2 percent of total worldwide GHG emissions. The organization estimates that air travel worldwide will double in passengers and flights by 2030 significantly increasing jet fuel consumption and GHG emissions.

“Alaska is committed to doing its part to reduce its carbon emissions and advancing the use of alternative jet fuels is a key part of our emission reduction strategy. Gevo’s jet fuel product is an important step forward, in that it has the potential to be scalable and cost effective, without sacrificing performance,” said Joseph Sprague, Alaska Airlines senior vice president of Communications and External Relations.

Alaska Airlines has been a leader in moving to a more sustainable industry both on the ground and in the air. Recently the airline partnered with Boeing and the Port of Seattle on a $250,000 Biofuel Infrastructure Feasibility Study for Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.

advanced biofuels, aviation biofuels, biojet fuel, isobutanol

Wild Sorghum Shows Potential as Biofuel Crop

Joanna Schroeder June 7, 2016

A variety of wild sorghum that grows on the roadside in northern Australia is showing great potential as a biofuel crop. Researchers from the ARC Centre of Excellence in Plant Cell Walls at the University of Adelaide have discovered that the sorghum variety Arun has the potential to yield over 10,000 liters of bioethanol per hectare per year.

SorghumAustralia_14652516195661-300x300-noup

R. Burton, C. Byrt, G Fincher and V. Bulone University of Adelaide

Scientists looked at the stems of 12 varieties of sorghum for sugar content and ease of conversion to ethanol. Varieties included both cultivated and wild relatives. They found that Arun yielded more ethanol than other varieties. The results of the study were published in the journal PLOS ONE.

“Two key advantages of using stem (rather than leaves or grain) to make biofuel is that we can produce this material in low input systems; and as we do not eat this part of the plant we avoid the food versus fuel debate,” explains Caitlin Byrt, postdoctoral fellow in the University’s School of Agriculture, Food and Wine.

The Arun stem contains high levels of a component thought to inhibit bioethanol production. However, research shows that this challenge appears to be offset by a high level of an easily fermentable sugar. The researchers say that a large pool of untapped diversity exists in other species and subspecies of sorghum which opens new avenues of research to generate sorghum lines optimized for biofuel production.

Arcadia Biosciences, a Davis, California-based agricultural technology company, is a partner in the center’s research and is working with the Centre to commercialize these findings. “Commercial application of this work could easily extend to production areas outside Australia,” adds Raj Ketkar, CEO of Arcadia. “We remain keenly interested in collaborating with the Centre and other partners to explore the use of sorghum as an alternative and sustainable energy source.”

advanced biofuels, Ethanol, feedstocks, Research

Repreve Renewables Opens NC Processing Center

Joanna Schroeder June 7, 2016

Repreve Renewables has opened a new processing center in Greensboro, North Carolina. The company’s primary crop is giant miscanthus, a drought tolerant perennial that needs low inputs yet provides high yields. Research has shown the crop also improves soil and water quality. Giant miscanthus can be used as a feedstock for a variety of products including bioenergy to poultry bedding.

The company says it located its plant in Greensboro as part of its initiative to build local economies while providing customers with reliable and cost effective feedstock solutions.

“The Wayne County Development Alliance (WCDA) was excited to partner with Repreve Renewables last year to become the first Wayne County industry to benefit from a new incentive policy recently approved by the Board of Commissioners,” said Chuck Allen, Wayne County Development Alliance board chairman who worked with Repreve on sighting the new processing center in his country. “The WCDA looks forward to working with Repreve Renewables now that they are an existing Wayne County industry.”

The processing center will house the company’s patented ACCU YIELD System. The technology, says Repreve, allows mischanthus production to be commercially scalable and delivers higher yield potential through improved germination, viability and precision planting, allowing the production of thousands of acres of miscanthus during a growing season.

“The opening of the N.C. processing center solidifies Repreve Renewables’ commitment to investing in the future of biomass and the industries it serves,” added Travis Hedrick, Chief Executive Officer for Repreve Renewables.“The processing center utilizes state-of-the-art equipment providing us with the flexibility and scale to further expand Repreve Renewables in new and innovative directions.”

advanced biofuels, bioenergy, feedstocks

Rochester Buses Make the Switch to #Biodiesel

Joanna Schroeder June 7, 2016

This month buses running in Rochester, Minnesota will be fueled with a B20 biodiesel blend (20 percent biodiesel). Today, the state requires the use of B10. Rochester Public Transit (RPT) has been using a B10 blend for several years but has made the move to a B20 blend two years before the state’s B20 mandate kicks in on May 1, 2018. According to the American Lung Association in Minnesota (ALAMN), the move to B20 will even further reduce emissions with no need to make major investments in vehicles or fueling infrastructure. RPT expects to see fuel saving between two and five cents per gallon with the B20 blend.

Photo Credit: National Biodiesel Board (NBB)

“Using this higher biodiesel blend will have an immediate effect on the air pollutants these buses emit, reducing particulate matter, hydrocarbon and carbon monoxide emissions,” said Kelly Marczak, regional senior director for clean air at the ALAMN. “It also represents another step away from fossil fuels and toward cleaner, more sustainable fuels produced here in Minnesota.”

Minnesota was the first state in the nation to require the use of biodiesel in diesel-based vehicles. In summer months – June through September- the use of B10 is required, increasing to B20 in 2018. In winter months, B5 is used.

According to ALAMN, using B20 in summer months will reduce GHG emissions by 15 percent as compared to petroleum diesel. Biodiesel also offers other benefits as detailed in a recent analysis.

advanced biofuels, Biodiesel

#Biofuel Supporters Rally For Higher #RFS Blending

Joanna Schroeder June 6, 2016

The EPA comment period for the 2017 renewable volume obligations (RVOs) under the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) are open and biofuel supporters are rallying for support in calling for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to increase the amount of biofuels, especially first generation biofuels that include corn-based ethanol. Thursday, June 9, 2016, the EPA is hosting a hearing in Kansas City and marks an opportunity for biofuel boosters to deliver their message. The comment period also includes the proposed rules for 2018 specifically for the advanced biofuels category that includes biodiesel.

Photo Credit: Joanna Schroeder

“America can’t achieve its climate, health or economic ambitions without renewable fuels. Among the most powerful tools we’ve got in achieving those ambitions is the Renewable Fuel Standard – as long as it’s allowed to work,” said Adam Monroe, America Regional President, Novozymes North America. “We urge anyone who’s benefited from the renewable fuel industry to speak out – and urge the Administration to listen to those voices and maximize renewable fuel production.”

While the 2017 RVOs saw a slight increase over 2016 volumes, for all categories of biofuels, they still remain under what is required by statute as determined back in 2007 when the renewable fuels legislation was signed into law. The biofuel industry, across the board, is calling for volumes to get back on track and be raised to statutory levels.

Bob Dinneen, President and CEO of the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) noted, “The proposed targets fall short of the statutory levels set by Congress. Consumers know that having only one choice at the pump – fossil fuels – is a vestige of outdated thinking and poor policy decisions. We must aim higher to protect the economic, environmental and energy security benefits of America’s most successful clean energy program.”

“Consumers who care about having affordable options and a choice at the gas pump can get in on the action by contacting the EPA and asking their lawmakers to support a strong RFS,” added Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. “Policymakers need to be reminded that ethanol producers, retailers and the current auto fleet are fully capable of accepting the statutory volumes as called for by Congress, providing consumers with a true choice and savings at the pump.”

Supporters are urged to testify at the EPA field hearing – and must register in advance to speak – or submit comments to the EPA by July 11, when regulators start writing a final rule.

advanced biofuels, Biodiesel, EPA, Ethanol, Growth Energy, Novozymes, RFA, RFS

U.S. Net #Ethanol Exports Hit 52-Month High

Joanna Schroeder June 6, 2016

Using new government data, the Renewable Fuels Association (RFA) is reporting that U.S. ethanol exports reached a 52 month high in April totaling 95.5 million gallons (mg), a slight uptick from March of 300,000 gallons and the highest monthly volume since December 2011. Once again China was the top destination receiving 34.5 mg of ethanol. India eked out Canada with 14.6 mg to 14.5 mg respectively. Year-to-date ethanol exports reached 344.9 mg keeping the industry on pace to ship around 1 billion gallons of U.S. ethanol worldwide in 2016.

April exports of U.S. denatured fuel ethanol fell 26 percent from March to 36.9 mg. The majority of product was shipped to China (22.1 mg)–which scaled back its imports of denatured product by 13 mg from March levels–and to Canada (12.6 mg). Peru (1.3 mg) and Jamaica (0.9 mg) were the only other major importers of denatured fuel ethanol in April.

Month-on-month exports of undenatured fuel ethanol rose 28 percent to 52.6 mg, with India leading the pack at 14.5 mg. China (12.5 mg), the Philippines (7.1 mg) and Brazil (6.5 mg) were other top importers of undenatured fuel product. Sales of denatured ethanol for non-fuel use expanded to the highest monthly volume in four years at 5.5 mg, with Nigeria’s imports of 3.5 mg accounting for the spike. Canada picked up much of the remaining share of denatured industrial ethanol (1.9 mg). Sales of undenatured ethanol for non-fuel, non-beverage use dropped back to a more typical level of 590,060 gallons after popping to 2 mg in March. Mexico and South Korea together accounted for half of the total volume of undenatured industrial.

For the first time in 20 months, the U.S. did not import a drop of fuel ethanol during April. Year-to-date fuel ethanol imports are just 40,325 gallons, putting the U.S. on pace to import far less than 1 mg in 2016. Meanwhile, EPA continues to project 200 mg of ethanol imports in both 2016 and 2017 to assist in compliance with the RFS advanced biofuel standard.

April exports of U.S. distillers dried grains with solubles (DDGS) expanded again this month, up 7 percent to 883,572 metric tons (mt). Mexico maintained its position as the top market by increasing its offtake to 148,555 mt. Turkey shook up the market with imports of 140,180 mt of U.S. DDGS, bypassing China to become the second-largest market in April. Exports to China continued to languish, showing only a minor increase on the books last month, rising to 125,587 mt. Other export markets of note in April included Vietnam (86,140 mg), South Korea (55,439 mt), Thailand (48,956 mt) and Canada (45,819 mt). Notably, Pakistan re-entered the market in April, buying 41,823 mt of U.S. DDGS. Year-to-date DDGS exports of 3.3 million mt indicate an annualized total of 9.9 million mt. DDGS exports are running nearly 200,000 mt per month behind last year’s monthly average.

Distillers Grains, Ethanol, Ethanol News, Exports, RFA

NCGA Awards Engine Insiders

Joanna Schroeder June 6, 2016

Lincoln Tech students Eddie Nolan and Nicolas Decker have been awarded “Engine Insiders Talk Shop” scholarships from the National Corn Growers Association. Each won a $1,000 for participating in an event hosted by the Indiana Corn Marketing Council in Speedway, Indiana where Car-talk host Bobby Likis delivered a presentation debunking the myths and communicating the science and benefits of fuels blended with American Ethanol.

Additional Engine Insiders Talk Shop classes are taking place this summer. To learn more and to register visit American Ethanol Racing.

The hour-long audio conferences moderated by Motor Racing Network Announcer Jeff Striegle and featuring Engine Technical Director of ECR Engines, Dr. Andy Randolph are open to engine technicians and students, auto dealers and fuel retailer professionals interested in learning more about the use and performance of ethanol-based fuels in today’s engines. Qualified participants will be entered to win scholarships and a chance to be “Honorary Crew Chief” for the No. 3 American Ethanol Chevrolet team at a Sprint Cup NASCAR race in October.

American Ethanol, Education, Ethanol, Racing

USDA Awards $8M for Advanced Biofuel Projects

Joanna Schroeder June 3, 2016

The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has awarded $8.8 million in funding to boost advanced biofuel production and assist in sustaining jobs at renewable energy facilities in 39 states. The funds, provided through USDA’s Advanced Biofuel Payment Program, tie in to several USDA programs also aimed at increasing advanced biofuel production including the Farm Bill’s bio-refinery program, the Green Fleet and the Biogas Opportunity Roadmap.

“Advanced biofuels expand America’s energy options and increase our sources of homegrown, renewable energy,” Vilsack said. “These payments not only help to spur biofuel production, but also protect the environment and help create jobs by building a renewable energy economy in rural areas.”

Funds under the Advanced Biofuels Program are dispersed to biofuel producers based on the amount of advanced biofuels are produced from renewable biomass with the exception of corn kernel starch. Eligible feedstocks include agriculture, food and yard waste, vegetable oil and animal fats. To date $308 million in payments to 382 producers in 47 states have been made. These payments have produced enough biofuel to provide more than 391 billion kilowatt hours of electric energy.

Click here to see a full list of producers receiving payments.

advanced biofuels, biomass, feedstocks

BioEnergy Bytes

Joanna Schroeder June 3, 2016

The Canadian Renewable Fuels Association has changed its name to Renewable Industries Canada (RICanada) to reinforce its 32 year mission to promote the use of value-added products made from renewable resources. In making the announcement, RICanada President Andrea Kent emphasized the evolution of the renewable fuels industry and the diversity of companies that operate within Canada’s bioeconomy.
According to a new report by Allied Market Research, titled, “World Biofuel Additives Market – Opportunities and Forecasts, 2015-2022“, the biofuel additives market is projected to reach $12,560 million by 2022, registering a CAGR of 15.3% from 2016 to 2022. The detergents & dispersants segment held about one-third of the total market in 2015.
Ethanol Producer Magazine is reporting that ASTM International has announced progress in the ongoing project to update its standards. New language in the standards incorporates E15 and updates driveability information. Additional revisions to the standard are in the pipeline.
Gevo has announced that it has commenced a review of strategic alternatives. The Board of Directors of Gevo has engaged Cowen & Company, LLC as financial advisor to assist in the review. The Board of Directors and its advisor have established a process for outreach to, and engagement with, interested strategic and financial parties.

Bioenergy Bytes

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