News and Notes - Sept. 30, 2008

Feature Article

ExxonMobil's Methanol to Gasoline (MTG) Technology Selected for Synthesis Energy Systems' Coal to Liquids Projects
http://www.biobasednews.com/node/18337

We have not seen much from ExxonMobil regarding biofuels and their interest in research. However this article may shed a little light on some of the things the company has been working on.

US News

POET to host grand opening for ethanol production facility near Marion, Ohio on October 24
http://www.poet.com/news/showRelease.asp?id=133

Xcel Energy Announces Largest Biomass Plant in Midwest
http://www.centredaily.com/business/story/873059.html

Lignol to Collaborate with Weyerhaeuser to Explore Commercial Development of Cellulose-based Products and Biochemicals
http://www.biobasednews.com/node/18339

RISI to produce Woody Biomass Market Report
http://www.risiinfo.com/risi-store/do/product/detail/wood-biomass-market-report.html

Idle Hawaiian coal plant to be converted to biomass
http://bioenergy.checkbiotech.org/news/2008-09-30/Idle_Hawaiian_coal_plant_to_be_converted_to_biomass/

RFA Applauds Recent Reports Showing U.S. Ethanol Producers Cut Energy Consumption
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/RFA_Applauds_Recent_Reports_Showing_U_S__Ethanol_Producers_Cut_Energy_Consumption_-63862.html

Norske Skog, Choren to work on biomass to liquids
http://www.cleantech.com/news/3589/norske-skog-choren-work-biomass-liquids

DOE Launches National Alternative Fuel Vehicle Odyssey Day
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/DOE_Launches_National_Alternative_Fuel_Vehicle_Odyssey_Day-63847.html

Pacific Ethanol expands production with Stockton operation
http://www.bizjournals.com/sacramento/stories/2008/09/29/daily9.html

Fraunhofer ISE Researchers Achieve 39.7% Solar Cell Efficiency
http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/story?id=53699

World's First 100% Renewable Jet Fuel Created
http://www.undeerc.org/homearticle.aspx?id=95

NCERC Becoming Known on Global Stage for Training Strong Ethanol Workforce
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/NCERC_Becoming_Known_on_Global_Stage_for_Training_Strong_Ethanol_Workforce-63849.html

Lawmakers at Impasse on Incentives for Renewable Energy
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/09/30/washington/30energy.html?_r=3&oref=slogin&oref=slogin&oref=slogin

Governor Schwarzenegger Signs Adams’ Bill Promoting Green Technology
http://www.bestsyndication.com/?q=20080929_bio_fuel_diesel.htm

SRI Consulting Issues Global 2008 Biodiesel Report Showing U.S. Poised to Become Largest Biodiesel Market by 2012
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/SRI_Consulting_Issues_Global_2008_Biodiesel_Report_Showing_U_S__Poised_to_Become_Largest_Biodiesel_Market_by_2012_-63878.html

Industry races to develop advanced biofuels
http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2078

Shell Contracts Jacobs Engineering Group Inc. to Provide Design and Construction of Ethanol and Biodiesel Blending Facilities Throughout Europe
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/Shell_Contracts_Jacobs_Engineering_Group_Inc__to_Provide_Design_and_Construction_of_Ethanol_and_Biodiesel_Blending_Facilities_Throughout_Europe_-63850.html

Utah State wins grant for biofuel research
http://www.sltrib.com/news/ci_10590152

Carbon Sciences Inc. Develops Technology to Convert CO2 Into Basic Fuel Building Blocks
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/Carbon_Sciences_Inc__Develops_Technology_to_Convert_CO2_Into_Basic_Fuel_Building_Blocks_-63883.html

Working at the Plant: Scientists Seek Breakthroughs in the Field of Cellulosic Ethanol
http://www.businesswest.com/details.asp?id=1725

International News

Southridge Enterprises, Hong Kong-based company sign $35 million ethanol sales agreement
http://www.bizjournals.com/dallas/stories/2008/09/29/daily6.html

NZ firm to microwave forest waste into charcoal
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10534943

UK opposes green aviation target
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/science/nature/7636780.stm

PetroSun and Shanghai Firm Execute Agreement
http://biz.yahoo.com/iw/080929/0438445.html

Ireland lowers biofuel target
http://www.energycurrent.com/index.php?id=3&storyid=13408

Auto cos shift gears to comply with new biofuel policy (India)
http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/Automobiles/Auto_cos_shift_gears_to_comply_with_new_biofuel_policy/articleshow/3542922.cms

Basic Energy signs deal with German company (Philippines)
http://business.inquirer.net/money/breakingnews/view/20080928-163456/Basic-Energy-signs-deal-with-German-company

News and Notes - Sept. 29, 2008

Feature Article

Group to finance biofuels center (National Science Foundation)
http://www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080928/NEWS/809280306/1001

The NSF will be funding a consortium of universities and agencies to create The Center for Bioenergy and Development. The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology will be the host institution for the center. Other founding universities include South Dakota State University, Kansas State University, North Carolina State University, State University of New York Stony Brook and the University of Hawaii. The Center will focus on refining starch ethanol technologies while also working on cellulosic biofuels.

US News

Renewable Fuel Standard mandating ethanol has divided rural opinions
http://www.daytondailynews.com/n/content/oh/story/news/nation_world/2008/09/28/ddn092808ruralprofiles.html

Everglades restoration buyout deal may not close door on U.S. Sugar
http://www.sun-sentinel.com/news/local/southflorida/sfl-flpsugardeal0928pnsep28,0,6068806.story

Something’s Brewing: Mt. Hood instructors ready to light the fire on experiment in making ethanol from wood
http://www.theoutlookonline.com/news/story.php?story_id=122248031788358000

Credit crisis may delay biofuels development
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7836446

Tulsa company helps public turn cooking oil into biodiesel
http://www.kjrh.com/mostpopular/story.aspx?content_id=3478f482-cc03-453e-9f4c-d8039969de09

Ethanol plant ‘shocked’ as Steelman pulls loan (MO)
http://www.columbiatribune.com/2008/Sep/20080927Feat001.asp

Dead Trees May Power Biomass Energy Plant
http://www.kesq.com/Global/story.asp?S=9091475

Diesel initiative on ropes: Congress may do away with project that uses animal fat (Conoco-Tyson JV)
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/6023808.html#

Company touts ethanol plant to farmers
http://www.delmarvanow.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080929/BUSINESS/809290323/-1/newsfront2

Jefferson Ethanol Plant Has Unplanned Waste Discharge (WI)
http://www.istockanalyst.com/article/viewiStockNews+articleid_2654526.html

GreenHunter Biofuels Issues Update on Hurricane Ike Damage to Houston, TX Biodiesel Plant
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/GreenHunter_Biofuels_Issues_Update_on_Hurricane_Ike_Damage_to_Houston__TX_Biodiesel_Plant_-63806.html

Michigan Passes Renewable Portfolio Standard
http://www.lawofrenewableenergy.com/2008/09/articles/renewable/michigan-passes-renewable-portfolio-standard/

Switchgrass eyed as fuel to make ethanol
http://bioenergy.checkbiotech.org/news/2008-09-29/Switchgrass_eyed_as_fuel_to_make_ethanol/

International News

France plans to end biofuel tax breaks by 2012
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7830387

U.N. report: Ethanol creates jobs
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4812

China should not follow US and Brazilian biofuel development models – expert
http://www.interfax.cn/news/5825/

PGIB stepping back from Collingwood Ethanol campaign
http://www.theenterprisebulletin.com/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1221669

Scientists work with algae to see if it could become the fuel of the future
http://canadianpress.google.com/article/ALeqM5gQ3sAwA4Lwa15Z-fIiZyWJejgRUg

Ontario won't increase ethanol content in gasoline
http://www.stcatharinesstandard.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1222618&auth=ROMINA%20MAURINO,%20THE%20CANADIAN%20PRESS

BCTA raises biodiesel concerns ahead of fuel rule  (Canadian Biodiesel Mandates)
http://www.todaystrucking.com/news.cfm?intDocID=20388

CO2 emissions still booming
http://www.alphagalileo.org/index.cfm?fuseaction=readrelease&releaseid=532452

Commercialise GM oilseeds: Experts
http://www.business-standard.com/india/storypage.php?autono=335724

News and Notes - Sept. 26, 2008

Feature Article

Iogen begins delivery of Shell’s 180,000 litre purchase of cellulosic ethanol
http://www.iogen.ca/news_events/press_releases/2008_10_25.html

Iogen is shipping over 26,000 gallons to Shell for fuel applications and research. It’s not everyday that you hear about the shipment of cellulosic ethanol!

US News

Renewable Energy Tops 10% of U.S. Energy Production
http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/infocus/story?id=53684

Forests may yield fuel alternatives, WVU researchers say
http://bioenergy.checkbiotech.org/news/2008-09-26/Forests_may_yield_fuel_alternatives,_WVU_researchers_say/

Researchers develop cellulose conversion catalyst
http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2073

Range Fuels receives fuels technology award
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4808

McCain, Obama, Clinton share stage, focus on alternative energy
http://biofuelsdigest.com/blog2/2008/09/25/mccain-obama-clinton-share-stage-focus-on-alternative-energy/

Thune Hosts Ethanol Meeting
http://www.aberdeennews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080926/NEWS10/809260428

Senate Passes Renewable Extensions (a good summary)
http://www.lawofrenewableenergy.com/2008/09/articles/renewable/senate-passes-renewable-extensions/

Forest products industry studies biomass impact
http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2074

Nobel Prize winner speaks of biofuels' potential
http://www.capitalpress.info/main.asp?SectionID=94&SubSectionID=801&ArticleID=44749&TM=57270.11

New (US) bill to expand promotion of biofuels is a welcome boost for U.S.-Brazil relations according to Brazilian sugarcane industry
http://bioenergy.checkbiotech.org/news/2008-09-24/New_bill_to_expand_promotion_of_biofuels_is_a_welcome_boost_for_U.S.-Brazil_relations_according_to_Brazilian_sugarcane_industry/

PGE aims to turn Boardman coal-plant pollution into biofuel
http://www.oregonlive.com/environment/oregonian/index.ssf?/base/news/1222401314139020.xml&coll=7

Poet Looking to Buy Privately Held Ethanol Plants, CEO Says
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601072&sid=aCn4NfZ_L7tk

Poet CEO sings of greater ethanol potential
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/big-ethanol-maker-poet-ramping/story.aspx?guid={459318FD-DFED-4844-BE4D-7C2E7F034ECA}&dist=TNMostMailed&print=true&dist=printMidSection

Remarks of POET CEO Jeff Broin to the United Nations on 9/24/08 - “I’m confident that what POET has achieved in rural America can happen all over the world.”
http://www.rhapsodyingreen.com/rhapsody_in_green/files/jeff_broin_un_remarks.pdf

Ethanol use fuels fire worries
http://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-b1_5buckeye-5r.6603661sep25,0,965807.story

Steelman rejects state loan for ethanol plant with connections to Andy Blunt (Show Me Ethanol)
http://primebuzz.kcstar.com/?q=node/14628

Access Dr. John R. Benemann’s New White Paper 'Opportunities & Challenges in Algae Biofuels Production' for FREE!
http://www.futureenergyevents.com/algae/whitepaper/

Boeing Joins Aviation, Energy and Academic Leaders to Accelerate Development and Availability of Sustainable Biofuels – Initial research includes assessment of jatropha and algae
http://biofuelsdigest.com/blog2/2008/09/26/boeing-joins-aviation-energy-and-academic-leaders-to-accelerate-development-and-availability-of-sustainable-biofuels/

International News

Brazil plans $25 bn ethanol investment
http://www.tradingmarkets.com/.site/news/Stock%20News/1903317/

Tata Chemicals’ ethanol plant validates claims on sorghum
http://www.livemint.com/2008/09/24220413/Tata-Chemicals8217-ethanol.html

What Makes Large Scale Jatropha Projects Tick? Three Industry Experts Offer Insights
http://www.prweb.com/releases/jatropha/free-webinar/prweb1379384.htm

News and Notes - Sept. 25, 2008

Feature Article

Chernobyl clean up to be helped by biofuels sector
http://www.biofuelreview.com/content/view/1725/1/

An interesting article on the Belarus government’s plan to use biomass production to reduce the radioactivity of the Chernobyl site. It is projected that the project could remove radioactivity from 50,000 square kilometers in 20-40 years, while producing biofuels on land that does not compete with food crops.

UTBI-related News

Transportation center eyed in Tennessee valley
http://timesfreepress.com/news/2008/sep/24/transportation-center-eyed-tennessee-valley/?local

US News

Duke developing biomass plants
http://www.charlotteobserver.com/business/story/212832.html

RISI biomass study finds government mandates could lead to over-harvesting of forests
http://www.risiinfo.com/technology/pulp-paper/news/RISI-biomass-study-finds-government-mandates-could-lead-to-over-harvesting-of-forests.html?source=rss

Brasher: Corn, soybean supply on brink of shortages
http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080921/BUSINESS03/809210324/1030/

High corn prices create huge losses in ethanol industry
http://minnesota.publicradio.org/display/web/2008/09/23/verasun_corn_prices/

Lawmakers to Let Offshore-Drilling Ban Expire
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122230324593473611.html?mod=dist_smartbrief

ACE proposes temporary E15 waiver
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4803

U.S. Senate extends renewable energy tax credits
http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2035

EPA releases Google Earth-based interactive web database of solar, wind, biomass opportunities on contaminated land
http://www.epa.gov/renewableenergyland/

Algenol takes fresh approach to ethanol production
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/algenol-takes-fresh-approach-ethanol/story.aspx?guid={E36349E5-0713-4468-A8BA-FE5DBA1ADF0C}&dist=msr_2

Tyson exec: Ethanol to blame for rise in food
http://www.nwanews.com/adg/Business/238205/

Minnesota's biofuel pioneers learn about cellulosic ethanol
http://news.tradingcharts.com/futures/6/1/114013416.html

New Research Supports Ethanol Production
http://www.hoosieragtoday.com/wire/news/01502_energy_study_180658.php

Avoiding Ethanol
http://www.redorbit.com/news/business/1564476/avoiding_ethanol/

DOE energy official: Ethanol benefit 'not insignificant'
http://farmweek.ilfb.org/viewdocument.asp?did=12050&r=0.9603998&r=0.730221

Snohomish County dedicates new biodiesel facility (WA Canola)
http://seattletimes.nwsource.com/html/localnews/2008199030_biodiesel24m.html

International News

Austrian study: heating with biomass remains two-thirds cheaper than heating oil – households save 1800 Euros per year, sector creates thousands of jobs
http://biopact.com/2008/09/austrian-study-heating-with-biomass.html

B.C.'s ethanol standards for gasoline a mistake: scientists
http://www.cbc.ca/technology/story/2008/09/23/ethanol-fuel-standards.html

Maple Energy ups Peru ethanol project budget to around $222 million
http://www.forbes.com/afxnewslimited/feeds/afx/2008/09/23/afx5457416.html

Gushan Resumes Beijing Operations Following Completion of 2008 Olympics
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/gushan-resumes-beijing-operations-following/story.aspx?guid={BD7B53D9-B20E-4B02-8283-4D2B7FEF3A94}&dist=hppr

India BPCL JV to invest $480mln in biodiesel-paper (jatropha)
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssEnergyNews/idUSDEL10754820080924

News and Notes - Sept. 23, 2008

Feature Article

TDOT Announces More Green Island Biofuel Pumps Now Online
http://www.chattanoogan.com/articles/article_135662.asp

The Tennessee State Government’s program to establish biofuel stations across the state makes more progress. This article focuses on stations that have competed the additions of E-85 or B-20 pumps. More of each are on the way as other contracts have been signed. This program is helping the state become a leader in the southeast for biofuel availability.

US News

Switchgrass to power new ethanol plant (Abengoa to build in Oklahoma)
http://www.kansascity.com/382/story/808252.html

Cyanobacteria that Crap Ethanol
http://www.treehugger.com/files/2007/09/cyanobacteria_t.php

Sorghums offer unique opportunity for biofuels feedstock production
http://southwestfarmpress.com/energy/sorghum-biofuels-0922/

Government bailout, expiring contracts are behind commodity's biggest one-day gain (Oil’s big jump)
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/energy/6016837.html

Inside Mascoma's ethanol-making bug lab
http://news.cnet.com/8301-11128_3-10047209-54.html

Ethanol trade group spent $141,900 lobbying in 2Q
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2008/09/23/ap5460404.html

Supply issues may hobble state’s biodiesel strategy (MA)
http://www.bizjournals.com/boston/stories/2008/09/22/story6.html?ana=from_rss

US Senate Bill Kills Tax Credit For Clean-Diesel Project
http://www.cattlenetwork.com/Content.asp?ContentID=254559

Farm Vote Swings on Ethanol
http://www.redorbit.com/news/business/1562909/farm_vote_swings_on_ethanol__mccains_stance_on_renewable/

US Senate expected to consider taxes on oil, gas industry
http://www.ogj.com/display_article/340168/7/ONART/none/GenIn/1/US-Senate-expected-to-consider-taxes-on-oil,-gas-industry/

Gasoline Surges in Southeast in Ike's Wake
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB122212948076365467.html?mod=dist_smartbrief

National Algae Association, Algal Biomass Organization stage conference same days, different towns; confusion reigneth
http://biofuelsdigest.com/blog2/2008/09/23/national-algae-association-algal-biomass-organization-stage-conference-same-days-different-towns-confusion-reigneth/

Ag brief suggests permanent, higher soybean prices
http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2800

International News

Bunge, Itochu to invest $800 mln in Brazil ethanol
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idUSN2340465620080923

Rejecting biofuels 'a costly decision' for states (Austrailia)
http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24387890-5013871,00.html

Special Biofuels Digest report on India’s new biofuels policy
http://biofuelsdigest.com/blog2/2008/09/23/special-biofuels-digest-report-on-indias-new-biofuels-policy/

Brazil Cosan eyes share swap in next ethanol deals
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssConsumerGoodsAndRetailNews/idUSN2231933520080922

News and Notes - Sept. 22, 2008

Feature Article

No. 200 on the Horizon (200th commercial ethanol plant)
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/takingstalk/post.jsp?blogPostID=24

An interesting blog post on the development of the corn ethanol industry in the United States over the last few years.

UTBI-related News

Biorefinery cited as a reason Knoxville moved up the Best Cities list
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2008/sep/19/knoxville-moves-up-best-cities-list/

Quest on for perfect energy crop (Australian News Article includes UTBI information)
http://sl.farmonline.com.au/news/nationalrural/agribusiness-and-general/general/quest-on-for-perfect-energy-crop/1276916.aspx

US News

Revised Senate 'Gang of 20' proposal won't be debated immediately
http://www.ogj.com/display_article/340102/7/ONART/none/GenIn/1/Revised-Senate-'Gang-of-20'-proposal-won't-be-debated-immediately/

Danisco and Goodyear to develop Bioisoprene
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssConsumerGoodsAndRetailNews/idUSLG57934520080916

The American Farmer, Friend or Foe
http://www.hoosieragtoday.com/wire/comments/00136_farmer_friend_or_foe_192346.php

U.S. ethanol makers lose money as Ike cuts demand
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idUSN1840979020080918

Biofuel operations take root in Florida (Sweet Sorghum plants)
http://www.tampabay.com/news/business/energy/article820067.ece

Renew Energy Resources, TDF partner to produce biodiesel in New York
http://www.energy-business-review.com/article_news.asp?guid=E69514A2-7349-43F6-B23B-815CD28B3B4A

EU, US diverging on biofuel policy?
http://www.carbonpositive.net/viewarticle.aspx?articleID=1246

A novel chemistry to make fuel from sugar
http://www.sciencenews.org/view/generic/id/36575/title/A_novel_chemistry_to_make_fuel_from_sugar

Cellulosic Ethanol Using Gasification-Fermentation
http://www.redorbit.com/news/business/1562429/cellulosic_ethanol_using_gasificationfermentation/

Utahns hurt by rush to ethanol
http://www.sltrib.com/opinion/ci_10520566

In Massachusetts, a 330,000 facts, 5,000 page digital resource for the biofuels industry, referencing 45,000 reports and articles, has been constructed and published by Garbrook Knowledge Resources
http://www.garbrook.com/welcome/biofuels_digest/index.html

ISU breaks ground on biorenewables laboratory
http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2012

New Ethanol Ad Campaign
http://domesticfuel.com/2008/09/22/new-ethanol-ad-campaign/

No quick resolution to food versus fuel debate
http://www.forbes.com/reuters/feeds/reuters/2008/09/19/2008-09-20T003303Z_01_N19419214_RTRIDST_0_FOOD-FUEL-ANALYSIS.html

Panda Ethanol terminates General Contractor for Ethanol Plant in Hereford TX; Company To Mangage Remaining Construction
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/Panda_Ethanol_terminates_General_Contractor_for_Ethanol_Plant_in_Hereford_TX__Company_To_Mangage_Remaining_Construction-63436.html

Biodiesel Trade Wars
http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2771

International News

EU biofuel panic threatens planet - Brazil envoy
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7811185

Scientists Apply to Plant GM Trees for Biofuels Research (UK)
http://www.redorbit.com/news/science/1562385/scientists_apply_to_plant_gm_trees_for_biofuels_research/#

Ramsar parties' draft to call for environmental assessment of biofuels
http://www.breitbart.com/article.php?id=D93B2J900&show_article=1

Sumitomo Plans Brazil Ethanol Venture on Renewable Fuel Demand (Japan)
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601101&sid=apNU9nBL7dj0&refer=japan

News and Notes - Sept. 18, 2008

Feature Article

Inside the Future of Electric Cars, Hydrogen and Next-Gen Biofuels
http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/research/4279508.html?series=19

Popular Mechanics takes a comprehensive looked at the future of vehicles and the fuel they depend upon.

US News

Georgia utility to build biomass-fueled power plants
http://www.bizjournals.com/atlanta/stories/2008/09/15/daily78.html?ana=from_rss

Green Recovery: A New Program to Create Good Jobs and Start Building a Low-Carbon Economy
http://www.americanprogress.org/issues/2008/09/green_recovery.html

Harkin, Luger introduce FFV legislation
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4787

Caterpillar Approves Use of B20 Biodiesel for Compact and Mid-Range Industrial Engines
http://www.forconstructionpros.com/online/Equipment-News/Caterpillar-Approves-Use-of-B20-Biodiesel-for-Compact-and-Mid-Range-Industrial-Engines-/38FCP11228

Ethanol makers hit by cash crunch
http://www.reuters.com/article/environmentNews/idUSN1728428220080918

Biofuels production plays to U.S. Strengths
http://southwestfarmpress.com/energy/biofuel-production-0918/

Scrapping U.S. biofuel mandate seen unlikely
http://www.reuters.com/article/GCA-BusinessofGreen/idUSN1837208920080918

Planned Pennsylvania Ethanol Plant Considering Switch From Corn to Barley
http://www.allheadlinenews.com/articles/7012329097

Researchers work to use biotech to advance alternative fuel solutions (Michigan)
http://www.mlive.com/rebrandingmichigan/index.ssf/2008/09/researchers_work_to_use_biotec.html

Biodiesel, Ethanol & Wind Facing Uphill Battle on the Hill
http://domesticfuel.com/2008/09/17/biodiesel-ethanol-wind-facing-uphill-battle-on-the-hill/

Frost & Sullivan Present Range Fuels 2008 North American Alternative Fuels Technology Innovation Green Excellence of the Year Award
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/Frost___Sullivan_Present_Range_Fuels_2008_North_American_Alternative_Fuels_Technology_Innovation_Green_Excellence_of_the_Year_Award-63334.html

House votes to expand drilling nearer most of U.S. Coastline
http://news.bostonherald.com/news/national/politics/general/view/2008_09_17_House_votes_to_expand_drilling_nearer_most_of_U_S__coastline/srvc=home&position=recent

DuPont VP Cites Alignment of Scientific Innovation and Market Focus as Keys to Success in GM and Biofuels Ventures
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/DuPont_VP_Cites_Alignment_of_Scientific_Innovation_and_Market_Focus_as_Keys_to_Success_in_GM_and_Biofuels_Ventures-63312.html

Gulf Ethanol Up and Running Following Loss of Power Services Due to Hurricane Ike
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/Gulf_Ethanol_Up_and_Running_Folling_Loss_of_Power_Services_Due_to_Hurricane_Ike_-63340.html

Biodiesel Tank Explodes in Gadsden (Alabama)
http://www.abc3340.com/news/stories/0908/554372.html

Making Plastic From Sugar
http://www.popularmechanics.com/science/research/4279508.html?page=2

International News

Woodchips to provide steam for Genencor plant
http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2019

Sekab to Invest $300 Million in Ethanol Plant in Tanzania
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601116&sid=a8DOf6meB4Bo&refer=africa

Liebherr-Rental Aims at Forestry and Biomass Production with New Specialist Excavator Attachment
http://www.hub-4.com/news/1301/liebherrrental-aims-at-forestry-and-biomass-production-with-new-specialist-excavator-attachment

Italy biodiesel to push ahead despite EU doubt
http://www.forbes.com/afxnewslimited/feeds/afx/2008/09/18/afx5440900.html

News and Notes - Sept. 16-17, 2008

Feature Article

Race on to develop pipes to transport ethanol
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2008/09/16/ap5433342.html

This article takes a good look at the pipeline situation and how ethanol may or may not be shipped through existing pipelines. The article indicates that a new, ethanol-only pipeline would cost over $1 million per mile. Kinder Morgan is preparing to test a run of 8000 gallons of ethanol through its Florida underground gasoline pipeline. Another company, Teppco Partners, ran 6500 gallons of ethanol in their pipeline last year. The fuel had to be filtered at the receiving end because “it picked up three decades worth of impurities” in the pipeline.

UTBI-related News

Rep. Zach Wamp: Tennessee Valley Corridor Leads South To Transportation Future’
http://www.chattanoogan.com/articles/article_135173.asp

US News

10 Questions for Poet’s CEO Jeff Broin
http://earth2tech.com/2008/09/15/10-questions-for-poets-ceo-jeff-broin/

Shell Undertakes Six New Agreements With Academic Institutions to Investigate Biofuel Feedstocks and Production Processes
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/Shell_Undertakes_Six_New_Agreements_With_Academic_Institutions_to_Investigate_Biofuel_Feedstocks_and_Production_Processes_-63277.html

Biofuel Maker Coskata Wrapping Up Third Round of Funding
http://greenlight.greentechmedia.com/2008/09/16/biofuel-maker-coskata-wrapping-up-third-round-of-funding-576/

The Implications of Plant Optimization Activities
http://ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4749

Bill Gates Goes For Algae, Invests in Biofuel Maker Sapphire Energy
http://blogs.wsj.com/environmentalcapital/2008/09/17/bill-gates-goes-for-algae-invests-in-biofuel-maker-sapphire-energy/

Mascoma, Dartmouth College create high-yielding bacteria
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4784

House Passes Bill To Expand Drilling, Fund Renewables
http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/09/16/AR2008091601216.html

Nexterra biomass deal pushes thermal advantages
http://media.cleantech.com/3427/nexterra-biomass-deal-pushes-thermal-advantages

Airgas to Build 450 tpd Liquid Carbon Dioxide Plant at FUEL Ethanol Plant Near Camilla, GA
http://news.thomasnet.com/companystory/549368

US biodiesel industry accuses Europe of hypocrisy
http://www.energy-business-review.com/article_news.asp?guid=F575D793-DE25-4917-8CDA-4E9D1328F3C7

Ethanol maker VeraSun sees third-quarter loss
http://www.reuters.com/article/marketsNews/idUSWEN817720080916

Alternative Renewable Bio-Fuel Sources: Camelina Sativa and Switchgrass
http://www.physorg.com/news140717843.html

Iowa Renewable Fuels Assn. Launches Media Campaign to Highlight Renewable Fuels' Positive Impact on Fuel Prices
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/Iowa_Renewable_Fuels_Assn__Launches_Media_Campaign_to_Highlight_Renewable_Fuels__Positive_Impact_on_Fuel_Prices-63252.html

Raven Biofuels Forges Strategic Alliance With Biomass Feedstock Experts at Price BIOstock
http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/marketwire/0433557.htm

High Grain Prices Are Likely Here To Stay
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/09/080915132700.htm

'Green fuel' company supplying region (B20 for home heating)
http://www.southcoasttoday.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080915/NEWS/809150341

NCGA Updates Booklet Detailing Value of Distillers Grains for Feed
http://www.ncga.com/news/notd/2008/September/091708.asp

GreenHunter biodiesel plant out for up to 8 weeks
http://money.cnn.com/news/newsfeeds/articles/apwire/fd105c992f8efca3434080a48e11b261.htm

Beatrice Biodiesel in bankruptcy
http://www.beatricedailysun.com/articles/2008/09/13/news/local/doc48cb4bb3a80aa078592941.txt

Man charged with grease rustling in Redding, Calif., as biodiesel prices skyrocket
http://www.suntimes.com/news/nation/1166862,grease091608.article

Sweet potatoes in your gas tank
http://www.charleston.net/news/2008/sep/16/sweet_potatoes_your_gas_tank54629/

International News

New Alternative Biofuels to Benefit from EU's Reduced Quotas
http://www.dw-world.de/dw/article/0,2144,3646174,00.html

Brazil To Start Up To 30 New Ethanol Prod Units This Year
http://www.fxstreet.com/news/forex-news/article.aspx?StoryId=ea8b0697-15f7-44ed-946a-6ade498df39d

Sugar to Climb Near 24-Year High on India, Brazil
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601080&sid=aVy_QUeearEo&refer=asia

Corn ethanol will cost Ontario economy: report
http://www.albertafarmexpress.ca/issues/ISArticle.asp?id=89604&PC=FBC&issue=09162008

Green crude oil world first, says company (New Zealand)
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10532401

Group seeks axing of ethanol subsidies (Austrailia)
http://news.theage.com.au/national/group-seeks-axing-of-ethanol-subsidies-20080915-4gye.html

Basic Energy inks ethanol deal with Canada firm  (Philippines)
http://business.inquirer.net/money/breakingnews/view/20080916-160908/Basic-Energy-inks-ethanol-deal-with-Canada-firm

News and Notes - Double Issue - Sept 12 & 15, 2008

Feature Article

Corn cob ethanol production near
http://www.iowafarmertoday.com/articles/2008/09/10/top_stories/03cobs.txt

A look at the research the POET LLC is working on in South Dakota. They will be producing cellulosic ethanol from cobs by the end of the year. The artice lbriefly describes and joint DOE project they are working on called Project Liberty, converting a corn ethanol plant into a cellulosic ethanol plant.

US News

American Petroleum Institute and the National Petrochemical and Refiner’s Association filed suit in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina challenging the recently-enacted North Carolina ethanol blending statute
http://www.magnetmail.net/actions/email_web_version.cfm?recipient_id=131118199&message_id=563174&user_id=NASM

GMO Corn-Stover Eats Itself, Makes Ethanol Processing A Breeze
http://gas2.org/2008/04/08/gmo-corn-stover-eats-itself-makes-ethanol-processing-a-breeze/

US on track to deliver second-largest corn crop
http://www.icis.com/Articles/2008/09/12/9156097/US-on-track-to-deliver-second-largest-corn-crop.html

Aventine to acquire outstanding 21 percent of Nebraska ethanol plant for $4.94 million, from Nebraska Energy Co-op
http://biofuelsdigest.com/blog2/2008/09/12/aventine-to-acquire-outstanding-21-percent-of-nebraska-ethanol-plant-for-494-million-from-nebraska-energy-co-op/

Tri-State Biodiesel fuels Sept. 11 memorial
http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2726

Nexterra to Build Biomass Gasification Plant for Oak Ridge National Laboratory in Oak Ridge, TN
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/Nexterra_to_Build_Biomass_Gasification_Plant_for_Oak_Ridge_National_Laboratory__in_Oak_Ridge__TN-63056.html

Link between biofuels and rising global food prices highlighted (by American Farm Bureau economist)
http://www.irishtimes.com/newspaper/ireland/2008/0913/1221235786365.html?via=mr

Senate GOP leaders balk at platform on ethanol
http://www.capitalpress.info/main.asp?SectionID=67&SubSectionID=782&ArticleID=44470&TM=16269

Obama tells U.S. farmers he backs ethanol mandate
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7786442

Energy research looking up (Michigan State)
http://wluctv6.com/news/news_story.aspx?id=190216

Local tree center part of alternative fuel puzzle in U.S. (PA looks at switchgrass)
http://www.dailypress.net/page/content.detail/id/506381.html?nav=5003

ARS Scientrists Study Switchgrass Cousin False Brome's Genetics to Speed Discoveries About Switchgrass for Biofuels Production
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/ARS_Scientrists_Study_Switchgrass_Cousin_False_Brome_s_Genetics_to_Speed_Discoveries_About_Switchgrass_for_Biofuels_Production_-63144.html

Lee at forefront of bio-diesel research (FL jatropha)
http://www.cape-coral-daily-breeze.com/news/articles.asp?articleID=21362

Camelina looks to be best crop for biodiesel production
http://www.theprairiestar.com/articles/2008/09/13/ag_news/farm_and_field/farm12.txt

Renewable Fuels Association Analysis of US Corn Crop
http://www.ethanolrfa.org/objects/documents/1898/corn_use_facts.pdf

Cleveland-Cliffs to build Iron Range biofuel plant
http://www.startribune.com/business/28222329.html?elr=KArksLckD8EQDUoaEyqyP4O:DW3ckUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aULPQL7PQLanchO7DiUX

Catalina Boaters Got Too Much Alcohol -- in Their Fuel
http://www.thelog.com/news/logNewsArticle.aspx?x=8281

EPA Awards West Virginia University Water Research Institute $550,000 to Develop Sustainable Energy Parks on Mine-Scarred Lands
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/EPA_Awards_West_Virginia_University_Water_Research_Institute__550_000_to_Develop_Sustainable_Energy_Parks_on_Mine_Scarred_Lands-63058.html

International News

French group floats non food-based biofuels plan
http://www.reuters.com/article/rbssEnergyNews/idUSLB29367920080911

Farmers ‘could reap the benefit’
http://www.nebusiness.co.uk/business-news/latest-business-news/2008/09/11/farmers-could-reap-the-benefit-51140-21795910/

Sugar mills threaten to halt ethanol production
http://www.business-standard.com/india/storypage.php?autono=334140&chkFlg=

EU legislators call for more modest biofuels goal
http://www.iht.com/articles/2008/09/11/business/biofuel.php

News and Notes - Sept. 11, 2008

Feature Article

Crist endorses ethanol plant to replace U.S. Sugar mill (Coskata in Florida)
http://www.tampabay.com/news/environment/wetlands/article805326.ece

This is an interesting article in more ways than just a cellulosic ethanol plant in Florida (which is big news on its own). It is a huge, multibillion dollar deal by the state to purchase the US Sugar Co. lands. However, what I find more interesting in the article are the small details about Coskata’s technology. Granted, sugarcane baggase is different than normal cellulosic materials, Coskata is claiming that once their demonstration plant in Pennsylvania opens, they’ll be making ethanol for $1 per gallon. That’s a lofty target. They also indicate that by squeezing the sugarcane leaf material, they will produce “extra water for South Florida” instead of being a net consumer.

UTBI-related News

UT’s Big Bet On Biofuels
http://www.metropulse.com/news/2008/sep/10/uts-big-bet-biofuels/

Tennessee researchers study switchgrass bale storage
http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2002

US News

Reap that Residue: Corn residue is there for the taking (Vermeer introduces new stover baler and cob collector equipment)
http://www.agweb.com/get_article.aspx?pageid=145297

New plant offers foothold on Gulf Coast for biodiesel
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/front/5994871.html

OPEC's September Surprise
http://newsweek.washingtonpost.com/postglobal/energywire/2008/09/opecs_september_surprise.html

Ethanol Subsidies: Robbing Peter to Pay Paul
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/daniel-kessler/ethanol-robbing-peter-to_b_124537.html

Ethanol's redemption? Distillers grain may ease food fears
http://www.argusleader.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080816/NEWS/808160306/1001/news

Staying on Track: Transporting ethanol safely via rail begins at the ethanol plant or terminal.
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4756

Study: Creating global biofuels industry could be difficult
http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2723

Bunge executive criticizes ethanol mandate
http://www.stltoday.com/blogzone/mound-city-money/mound-city-money/2008/09/bunge-executive-criticizes-ethanol-mandate/

Battle simmers over ethanol blending
http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080911/BUSINESS01/809110356/1029/BUSINESS

Woody Biomass Removal Case Studies (Forest Guild)
http://biomass.forestguild.org/

Chesapeake Bay Watershed states study cellulosic ethanol
http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2004

State awards $14M to E’burg ethanol plant: Iowa Power Fund behind Poet Biorefining grant
http://www.messengernews.net/page/content.detail/id/508787.html?nav=5010

Broad Coalition Encourages Pelosi to Advance E85 Fuel Infrastructure
http://biobasednews.com/node/18011

Sustainable Power Corp. Capable of Generating Electricity From Its Raw Biocrude Utilizing Texas Power Systems' Generators
http://www.marketwire.com/press-release/Sustainable-Power-Corp-898443.html

Partners celebrate opening of biomass plant (24MW plant in AZ)
http://www.wmicentral.com/site/news.cfm?newsid=20106796&BRD=2264&PAG=461&dept_id=505965&rfi=6

UOP LLC Partners With Ensyn Corp. to Offer Equipment and Technology to Convert Biomass to Oil For Power, Heating, and Transportration Fuels
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/UOP_LLC_Partners_With_Ensyn_Corp__to_Offer_Equipment_and_Technology_to_Convert_Biomass_to_Oil_For_Power__Heating__and_Transportration_Fuels-62990.html

International News

Cabinet sets new biofuel target, risks food price row (India)
http://in.reuters.com/article/economicNews/idINIndia-35429120080911

Biofuel boom profiting corporations, not locals: activists
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5jbQQRYXL6ls4yv30IXoNRWKWqmSQ
(Friends of the Earth Report is available here: http://www.foeeurope.org/agrofuels/fuellingdestruction/FOEI_FuellingDestruction_lr_FINAL.pdf)

UNICA Critiques Friends of the Earth Report for Use of Inaccurate and Outdated Information (Brazil)
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/UNICA_Critiques_Friends_of_the_Earth_Report_for_Use_of_Inaccurate_and_Outdated_Information-63001.html

EU lawmakers propose lowered biofuels target
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7787628

IDB Biofuels Sustainability Scorecard
http://www.iadb.org/scorecard/

News and Notes - Sept. 10, 2008

Feature Article

The 2008 Farm Bill Side-By-Side Comparison with 2002 Farm Bill available
http://www.ers.usda.gov/FarmBill/2008/

This is a really good resource to easily see the changes made by the new farm bill. It covers all aspects of the bill and clearly lays out the differences. Access the comparison by using the links on the right-hand side of the page

US News

Study: Green program means 45,000 new Tennessee jobs
http://www.knoxnews.com/news/2008/sep/10/study-green-program-means-45000-new-tennessee-jobs/

DOE to Invest $4.4 Million in Biofuels Research and Development Innitiatives at U.S. Universities
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/DOE_to_Invest__4_4_Million_in_Biofuels_Research_and_Development_Innitiatives_at_U_S__Universities-62939.html

EPA approves hurricane-related fuel waiver
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4767

Boone: Pick My Plan, 'I Know More'
http://www.marketsmediaonline.com/news_details.htm?wP=1&wPI=1&cN=1660

Wood pellet sales take off as demand rises, supply tightens
http://www.mlive.com/grpress/business/index.ssf/2008/09/wood_pellet_sales_take_off_as.html

Obama tells U.S. farmers he backs ethanol mandate
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7786442

New ethanol plant planned in southwest Illinois (Abengoa)
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2008/09/09/ap5405886.html

POET to Host Grand Opening at 65-MMGY Ethanol Plant in Fostoria, OH on Sept. 30 (25th facility)
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/POET_to_Host_Grand_Opening_at_65_MMGY_Ethanol_Plant_in_Fostoria__OH_on_Sept__30-62890.html

Residents complain about noise from ethanol plant (Indiana)
http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/chi-ap-in-ethanolplant-nois,0,2807956.story

Jet fuel from algae passes first test
http://www.sciam.com/blog/60-second-science/post.cfm?id=jet-fuel-from-algae-passes-first-te-2008-09-09

Ethanol companies' merger goes before shareholders
http://www.kpcnews.com/articles/2008/09/08/greater_fort_wayne/news/today/9-8story3.txt

Taming the Ethanol Zoo: a Biofuels Digest essay
http://biofuelsdigest.com/blog2/2008/09/10/taming-the-ethanol-zoo-a-biofuels-digest-essay/

Green Earth Technologies' G-OIL for Ethanol Fuel is Solution for Adoption of New EPA 2010 & 2011 "Surf & Turf" Standards
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/green-earth-technologies-g-oil-ethanol/story.aspx?guid=%7B7EF33075-AC84-4E4F-9A12-96E4B7FA81D6%7D&dist=hppr

International News

Unchecked biofuels could lead to food shortages: UN expert
http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5h0VRww43IuobyPByRAsKnhqQ4KKA

Volvo Group Coordinates Broad European Coalition--BioDME--to Produce, Test, and Distribute Dimethyl Ether
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/Volvo_Group_Coordinates_Broad_European_Coalition__BioDME__to_Produce__Test__and_Distribute_Dimethyl_Ether-62900.html

Ethanol industry's publicity campaign 'completely inappropriate' (Canada)
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/LAC.20080910.ELECTIONETHANOL10/TPStory/National

Palm oil's plunge makes biofuels attractive again (Singapore)
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7784643

News and Notes - Sept. 9, 2008

Feature Article

Researchers: Standard for life cycle analysis needed
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4760

A review of a recently published paper, this article looks at two Nebraska researchers’ study of life cycle analyses and the need for standardization of those types of studies. I think we all see the need for this type of standardization, so that we can compare apples to apples.

US News

New bacteria could make cheaper ethanol
http://www.reuters.com/article/idUSN0847220620080908

Range Fuels to Explore Herbaceous Energy Crops With Leading Developer of Biomass Feedstocks
http://www.businesswire.com/ (Search for Range Fuels)

Ethanol from seawater and algae gains large investment: a Biofuels Digest profile of Algenol
http://biofuelsdigest.com/blog2/2008/09/09/ethanol-from-seawater-ad-algae-gains-large-investment-a-biofuels-digest-profile-of-algenol/

Biofuels' future unsettled: Technology will enable higher yields from corn, but other concerns remain
http://www.desmoinesregister.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080909/BUSINESS/809090358/1030/BUSINESS01

Cornell Gets $10 Million NSF Grant to Establish New Institute That Applies Computer Power to Sustainability
http://www.newswise.com/articles/view/544026/?sc=swhr;xy=5047780

Ag Secretary Schafer defends ethanol production
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2008/09/08/ap5401120.html

U.S. urged to maintain renewable-fuels incentives
http://www.startribune.com/business/28036104.html?elr=KArksUUUU

Biomass boiler business rapidly expanding
http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=1998

North Dakota plant destroyed in fire
http://www.biodieselmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=2716

Colorado State University receives $3 million for biofuels doctoral program
http://www.ncbr.com/article.asp?id=95916

Between E10 and E85, Mid-Level Ethanol Blends Offer Consumers Choice, Savings
http://www.ncga.com/news/notd/2008/September/090908.asp

Food and Fuel Delivered: Virginia-Based Osage Bio Energy Moves Forward with Building the Southeast's First Barley-Based Ethanol and Protein-Feed Production Facility
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/food-fuel-delivered/story.aspx?guid={319DCF87-A08D-4384-8063-A18D3A63C6B9}&dist=hppr

K-State works to overcome challenges of making cellulosic ethanol feasible
http://www.ktka.com/news/2008/sep/09/kstate_works_overcome_challenges_making_cellulosic/

'Omnivorous engine' hopes to run on many fuels
http://www.physorg.com/news140099908.html

Drilling takes center stage on Capitol Hill: Ideas galore, but an energy bill seems unlikely to make it out alive
http://www.chron.com/disp/story.mpl/business/energy/5990868.html

International News

Collingwood Ethanol charged under Environmental Protection Act (Canada)
http://www.collingwoodconnection.com/collingwoodconnection/article/115576

New environment boss 'sceptical' (N. Ireland)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/northern_ireland/7446829.stm

Indian Railways’ Jatropha Biodiesel Gathers Steam: a Biofuels Digest special report
http://biofuelsdigest.com/blog2/2008/09/09/indian-railways’-jatropha-biodiesel-gathers-steam-a-biofuels-digest-special-report/

Biodiesel Expected to Grow in India's Emerging Biofuel Market: New Study
http://www.soyatech.com/news_story.php?id=10155

Biofuels: The Growing Debate
http://www.independentonlinesolutions.com/saab/

News and Notes - Sept. 8, 2008

Feature Article

Wood pellet sales take off as demand rises, supply tightens
http://www.mlive.com/grpress/business/index.ssf/2008/09/wood_pellet_sales_take_off_as.html

This article looks at the demand for wood home heating pellets in the northern US. Demand is increasing and supply is decreasing. Prices are nearing $200/ton for the materials. It is still cheaper to use wood pellets ( a 50-60% decrease in cost) than using petroleum fuels or natural gas.

US News

Can't See the Forest for the Biofuels
http://blog.wired.com/wiredscience/2007/08/cant-see-the-fo.html

Converting waste to fuel good idea
http://www.sbsun.com/opinions/ci_10406084

Gulf Ethanol to Host Fortune 100 Energy Company
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/gulf-ethanol-host-fortune-100/story.aspx?guid={B5E3D499-FB31-4039-82BF-7D8C617639C7}&dist=hppr

Biomass officials provide details (Power plant in Texas)
http://www.dailysentinel.com/news/content/news/stories/2008/09/06/misc_biomass_090708.html?cxtype=rss&cxsvc=7&cxcat=10

Beetles That Break Down Wood Might Provide Key to Biofuel Research
http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/story?id=53496

Wal-Mart donates to Arkansas State University for cellulosic ethanol research
http://www.arkansasnews.com/archive/2008/09/06/News/347854.html

Jackson County biodiesel firm gets federal funds (GA)
http://www.onlineathens.com/stories/090708/new_329355330.shtml

Northern Ethanol to build New York plant
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4695

John McCain has found a loophole when discussing energy
http://www.timesrepublican.com/page/content.detail/id/509986.html

New enzyme technology allows use of key biofuel by-product in poultry rations
http://www.fwi.co.uk/Articles/2008/09/06/112034/new-enzyme-technology-allows-use-of-key-biofuel-by-product-in-poultry.html

Chrysler announces 2009 FFV lineup
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4697

International News

Africa Becoming a Biofuel Battleground
http://www.spiegel.de/international/world/0,1518,576548,00.html

Ontarians split over doubling ethanol in gas: Poll
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Canada/2008/09/07/6689981-sun.html

Who benefits from the thrust on bio-fuels?
http://sify.com/finance/fullstory.php?id=14753675

Ethanol plant will produce more than fuel (Canada)
http://www.communitypress.ca/ArticleDisplay.aspx?e=1185605

News and Notes - Sept. 5, 2008

Feature Article

Biofuels: Can a global standard solve the sustainability problem?
http://www.climatechangecorp.com/content.asp?ContentID=5604

This article looks at the biofuel sustainability standards developed through the Roundtable on Sustainable Biofuels. This standard is under review in Europe and will likely be utilized by the EU and Britain. These standards were developed in consultation with all stake holders, industrial producers through home users, and may actually develop some staying power. BP has already indicated that it could implement the standards in its own biofuels programs.

US News

Time to reconsider criticism of ethanol
http://www.kansas.com/business/perspectives/story/517310.html

Report: Switchgrass can be used for fuel
http://www.thetimes-tribune.com/articles/2008/09/05/news/sc_times_trib.20080905.a.pg8.tt05biofuel_s1.1924525_loc.txt

Ten strikes and still not out - Biofuels: not cost-effective or lucrative for climate change or business
http://gristmill.grist.org/story/2008/9/2/113410/6394

Nebraska Corn Board: Ethanol Provides Not Only Clean Fuel, But Also Jobs, Taxes, and Economic Activity for Rural Communities
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/Nebraska_Corn_Board__Ethanol_Provides_Not_Only_Clean_Fuel__But_Also_Jobs__Taxes__and_Economic_Activity_for_Rural_Communities_-62734.html

MSU Biofuels Tech to be Commercialized (by Edenspace)
http://www.wwj.com/MSU-Biofuels-Tech-to-be-Commercialized/2899694

Ethanol plant to open today in Dyersville (IA)
http://www.thonline.com/article.cfm?id=214635

Bratney Offers Oderless Glycerin Technology
http://www.bratney.com/corporate_information/event_detail.aspx?rid=11

Propel Study Shows Biodiesel Runs Equal to, if not Better than Petroleum
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/propel-study-shows-biodiesel-runs/story.aspx?guid=%7B4AB17DD3-6DD0-48ED-A12F-97433632D6E8%7D&dist=hppr

International News

Shell and Iogen Extend Alliance on Cellulosic Ethanol
http://www.greencarcongress.com/2008/07/shell-and-iogen.html

Biofuel push may backfire says official (New Zealand)
http://www.nzherald.co.nz/section/1/story.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10530652

Brazil's Sugar Production Seen Lower on Rain, Ethanol
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601086&sid=a.QO.lqMTXRw&refer=latin_america

News and Notes - Sept. 4, 2008

UTBI-related News and Feature Article

Researchers study shapes of switchgrass bales
http://deltafarmpress.com/biofuels/switchgrass-baler-0903/

This article highlights the switchgrass bale storage research project being conducted at UT’s Milan Research and Education Center in West Tennessee. Dr. Burt English is coordinating the study and finding some pretty interesting results, especially related to water absorption of the different bale types.

US News

USDA Awards $19.7 Million in Value-Added Rural Development Grants; Many Go to Alternative Energy Projects
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/USDA_Awards__19_7_Million_in_Value_Added_Rural_Development_Grants__Many_Go_to_Alternative_Energy_Projects-62671.html

Aventine sees soft ethanol margins
http://uk.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idUKN03888220080903

The new 'oil' is right here in the Northwoods: it's called biomass
http://newsofthenorth.net/article.cfm?articleID=24181

BFJ.Com Podcast with Jim Doolittle, Director of the North Central Sun Grant Center on the Sun Grant Initiative Biofuels Research
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/bfj_com_podcast_with_jim_doolittle__director_of_the_north_central_sun_grant_center_on_the_sun_grant_initiative_biofuels_research-62279.html

PA Gov. Rendell: State Poised to Become Leader in Cellulosic Biofuels by Following Recommendations in "Next-Generation Biofuels" Report
http://www.biofuelsjournal.com/articles/PA_Gov__Rendell__State_Poised_to_Become_Leader_in_Cellulosic_Biofuels_by_Following_Recommendations_in__Next_Generation_Biofuels__Report-62696.html

Gulf Ethanol Dispels Doubts
http://www.marketwatch.com/news/story/gulf-ethanol-dispels-doubts/story.aspx?guid={B626E905-AA24-4C13-9994-1CA9D7B44E70}&dist=hppr

Stover as biofuel raises new questions
http://www.iowafarmertoday.com/articles/2008/09/04/top_stories/01stover.txt

Republicans Would End Ethanol Mandate Under Platform
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601070&sid=artlVS5fJj7s&refer=home

Industry responds to GOP’s anti-ethanol policy
http://www.ethanolproducer.com/article.jsp?article_id=4692

Changing Locomotion in Midstream: California’s Ethanol Mandate (Part 3)
http://gas2.org/2008/09/03/changing-locomotion-in-midstream-californias-ethanol-mandate-part-3/

Biofuel researchers look for the good in stinkweed
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5i0zMUMiXhC1r5ubvAGoGGLcslatwD92V70S00

Biotech company Codexis withdraws IPO
http://www.bizjournals.com/sanjose/stories/2008/09/01/daily38.html

NMSU prepares for biodiesel demo
http://www.lcsun-news.com/ci_10352636?source=most_emailed

International News

Brazil Sugar Output to Rise Less Than Forecast on Rain, Ethanol
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=20601086&sid=aFYK7IkLFhmE&refer=news

Parliament passes biofuel bill (New Zealand)
http://www.nbr.co.nz/article/parliament-passes-biofuel-bill-34812

Dutch brewers say enthusiasm for biofuels waning
http://www.guardian.co.uk/business/feedarticle/7771239

News and Notes - Sept. 3, 2008

Feature Article

Ford testing ethanol injection with Ecoboost
http://reviews.cnet.com/8301-13746_7-10030963-48.html

This gives a more in-depth review of the new Ford engines (as reported earlier http://utbionews.blogspot.com/2008/08/news-and-notes-august-11-2008.html) that are under development. Apparently a new generation of the Ecoboost uses ethanol directly injected into the fuel/air mixture, cooling the chamber and making combustion more efficient. Ford says the injection/turbo engine gets better gas mileage than the earlier Ecoboost. This would be a potential boon for the struggling automaker.

US News

SD senator: GOP call to end ethanol mandate wrong
http://www.forbes.com/feeds/ap/2008/09/02/ap5380675.html

U.S. Republicans break with Bush on ethanol
http://uk.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idUKN0133790420080902?sp=true

Brazil sees WTO ethanol case against U.S. soon
http://www.reuters.com/article/politicsNews/idUSN0245084720080902?sp=true

Novel Fungus Helps Beetles to Digest Hard Wood
http://www.gantdaily.com/news/43/ARTICLE/29349/2008-09-01.html

Ethanol: Can it blend in?
http://www.hpj.com/archives/2008/sep08/sep1/Ethanol-Canitblendin.cfm?title=Ethanol-%20Can%20it%20blend%20in

Assessing the Alternatives
http://autospeed.com/cms/A_110155/article.html?popularArticle

From missteps on biofuels and wind, it's clear a lack of leadership is the nation's real energy crisis
http://www.philly.com/inquirer/currents/20080831_From_missteps_on_biofuels_and_wind__it_s_clear_a_lack_of_leadership_is_the_nation_s_real_energy_crisis_.html

Commercial biodiesel, the nation's cash
http://ap.google.com/article/ALeqM5iYG8SUnUOR9NfNAI-ZFekXsmN5GwD92S6ERG0

Ethanol plan scrapped, but biodiesel may replace it (FL)
http://tampabay.com/news/business/energy/article788854.ece

Tweaking corn genes to boost biofuel yields
http://media.cleantech.com/3328/tweaking-corn-genes-boosting-biofuel-production

Ethanol producer has burning ambition (SC)
http://www.charleston.net/news/2008/sep/01/columbia_firm_seeks_millions_fund_biofue52617/

Want fries with that fuel? City zoners OK biodiesel company (PA)
http://www.mcall.com/news/local/all-b5_5fuel.6564027sep02,0,124088.story

Kansas corn growers, EPIC, serve up new ethanol blends
http://www.hpj.com/archives/2008/sep08/sep1/kansascorngrowersepicserveu.cfm

New algae fuel alchemy gets $3M
http://media.cleantech.com/3350/new-algae-fuel-alchemy

Alternative fuel refinery eyeing site on Miami River
http://southflorida.bizjournals.com/southflorida/stories/2008/09/01/story1.html?ana=e_ph

Changing Locomotion in Midstream: California’s Ethanol Mandate (Part 1)
http://gas2.org/2008/09/01/changing-locomotion-in-midstream-californias-ethanol-mandate-part-1/

International News

Saving trees first in the fight to reduce emissions need not cost the earth
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/money/main.jhtml?xml=/money/2008/09/03/ccview103.xml

German bioethanol firm cuts output on (due to) imports
http://uk.reuters.com/article/oilRpt/idUKL131829620080901