FISHING FOR FUEL
C. Miller, Aftermarket Business, August 2008, p. 10
The article focuses on algae as an alternative source of fuel. It highlights the benefits of algae in terms of its role in the environment and its means of culturing as well as the advantage of algal biofuel over other petroleum products. It also presents the companies which started the algae-to-biofuel operation.
>Read more: http://tinyurl.com/3t8gfq

FURFURAL: FUTURE FEEDSTOCK FOR FUELS AND CHEMICALS
Jessica Ebert, Biomass Magazine, September 2008
Furfural, a sister chemical to the increasingly popular hydroxymethylfurfural or HMF molecule, is regaining attention as a biobased alternative for the production of everything from antacids and fertilizers to plastics and paints.  in the 1920s several tons of furfural was produced each month from the cereal waste stockpiles at the Quaker Oats Co. in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. But cheap oil prices in the latter part of the 20th century brought domestic production of furfural to a veritable halt. Kendall Pye, chief scientific officer at Lignol Innovations Ltd., a Canadian developer of biorefining technologies and a subsidiary of Lignol Energy Corp., says “Now that oil prices have gone sky high, there’s a strong interest in producing furfural again because it really looks like it could be cheaper.”
>Read more: http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=1950

GROW YOUR OWN COAL
S. Blankinship, RedOrbit.com, August 18, 2008
NewEarth Renewable Energy hopes interest grows in E-Coal, a solid fuel derived from renewable agricultural or biological materials intended for co-firing with conventional coal in ratios starting at 10 percent and ranging to as much as 100 percent.
>Read more: http://www.redorbit.com/news/business/1523636/grow_your_own_coal/index.html

MORE ENERGY-EFFICIENT ETHANOL
Jennifer Chu, Technology Review, August 18, 2008
Making corn ethanol is an energy-intensive process, requiring fossil fuels to grow and harvest corn and to power the production plant.  Researchers at Washington University are proposing a way to make the process more energy efficient by borrowing a process used in breweries and wastewater treatment facilities: oxygen-less vats of bacteria that naturally feed on organic waste produced from the fermentation process. As bacteria break down waste, it releases methane, which can be funneled back through the system to help power a plant, cutting down energy costs to by producing its own power.
>Read more: http://www.technologyreview.com/Energy/21266/

NEW ALGAE FUEL ALCHEMY GETS $3M
Lee Bruno, Cleantech.com, September 2, 2008
Researchers from Arizona State University and University of Virginia, in separate projects, have pioneered new commercial scale algae opportunities. ASU researchers have received a $3 million for a new algae spinoff company that's developed a kerosene-based aviation fuel derived from algae.   University of Virginia researchers have announced development of commercial production models for growing algae more efficiently. They believe the proper balance of CO2 and organic material can boost oil production by as much as 40 percent.
>Read more: http://media.cleantech.com/3350/new-algae-fuel-alchemy

THE TRANSITION TO SECOND GENERATION ETHANOL
Rick Kment, RenewableEnergyWorld.com, August 25, 2008
First generation corn-based ethanol is well into production, but there is still a significant gap between the volume in current production and the amount required to meet the Renewable Fuels Standard in the U.S. by 2022.  With second generation ethanol (cellulosic) there has yet to be a set of standardized technologies proven to be the best or most efficient.  The popular current methods include biochemical (enzymatic and fermentation), thermo-chemical (gasification and carbohydrate reforming) and hybrid (gasification and fermentation).  The situation is similar to the battle between VHS and Beta tapes or to the more recent struggle between HD and BlueRay DVDs.  Eventually, one or two of the best methods will need to push their way to the front as the industry favorites. 
>Read more: http://www.renewableenergyworld.com/rea/news/reinsider/story?id=53353

INVITATION: CANADIAN MISSION TO BIOMONTERREY 2008 Canadian Mission to BioMonterrey 2008 Invitation to join the Canadian delegation participating in BioMonterrey 2008  Location: Monterrey, Mexico Date: October 15-17, 2008 BioMonterrey 2008 Congress, one of the most important biotechnology events in Latin  America, takes place October 15-17 2008 in Monterrey Mexico.  The event will focus on three major biotechnology streams in which Canada excels, and which are designed to stimulate regional and international cooperation: Human Health Biotechnology (Medical and Pharmaceutical); Agri-Food and Human Nutrition Biotechnology and Bioremediation and Sustainable Development  (Environmental Biotechnology).  Canada is a partner country this year and a variety of Canadian expert speakers will be taking part in several of the key panels throughout the event, including BIOTECanada, one of the event sponsors. The Mexican biotechnology community is keen on learning more about Canadian expertise, companies, and entities, and to potentially enter into active collaborations with them.  To this end, the Congress will also feature a Bio-fair where Canadian entities will be showcasing their technologies and products at the Canadian pavilion. Canadian organizations that participate in the event will benefit from the following: Space  in the Canadian pavilion at the Bio-Fair Match-making/one-on-one meetings with potential Mexican partners; The opportunity to deliver a corporate presentation during the sessions; Access to conferences and networking events; Participation in a dinner/facility tour sponsored by the Biotechnology Centre of Tecnológico de Monterrey University. BioMonterrey 2008 (www.biomonterrey.org.mx) is a bi-annual congress and exhibition, and this year?s event promises excellent opportunities for Canadian entities. For further information on how BioMonterrey 2008 can contribute to your international strategy, please contact:    Bonny Berger Consul and Trade Programme Manager/Consul et Déléguée commerciale principale Consulate General of Canada/Consulat général du Canada Tel/Tél: (52) 81 - 8344-3200, ext/poste 3356 Fax/Télécopie: (52) 81 - 8344-3048  Email/Courriel: bonny.berger@international.gc.ca http://www.biomonterrey.org.mx/

 

 

INCENTIVE PROGRAM FOR ENERGY PRODUCTION FROM BIOMASS INTRODUCED
Manitoba Hydro News Release, August 20, 2008
Manitoba Hydro has introduced the Bioenergy Optimization Program to encourage the use of sustainable biomass as a fuel for the production of combined heat and power at customer sites. The new Power Smart program is aimed at over 250 agricultural and industrial customers with access to readily available, low cost sources of biomass, continual needs for heat and power, and the capability to operate biomass to energy conversion systems.  End results include reduced energy purchases, avoided waste disposal, and environmental benefits to participating customers.
>Program details: http://www.hydro.mb.ca/your_business/bioenergy_optimization/index.shtml
>News release: http://www.hydro.mb.ca/news/releases/news_08_08_20.shtml

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGY CANADA ANNOUNCES LATEST CALL FOR CLEAN TECHNOLOGY FUNDING APPLICATIONS
News Release, September 3, 2008
Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC), the largest single funder of clean technology in Canada, announced today that the $550M SD Tech Fund™ is open for Statements of Interest (SOI) for its fourteenth round of funding until October 22, 2008. SDTC is actively seeking applications for technology innovations in all areas of sustainable development that deliver clean water, clean soil, clean air, and a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
>Read more: http://www.sdtc.ca/en/news/media_releases/media_03092008.htm

SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT TECHNOLOGY CANADA CALLS FOR APPLICATIONS TO ITS $500-MILLION NEXTGEN BIOFUELS FUND
News Release, August 14, 2008
Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) calls for applications to its $500-million NextGen Biofuels Fund which supports the establishment of first-of-kind large demonstration-scale facilities for the production of next-generation renewable fuels.  The NextGen Biofuels FundTM will support up to 40% of eligible project costs. The contribution will be repayable based on free cash flow over a period of 10 years after project completion.  Next-generation biofuels are derived from non-traditional renewable feedstocks, such as municipal waste, agricultural and forest residues, and perennial crops on marginal land, and are produced through the use of novel conversion technologies.
>News release: http://www.sdtc.ca/en/news/media_releases/media_14082008.htm
>Application: http://www.sdtc.ca/en/funding/NextGen_Biofuels_Fund/index.htm

FARMERS PLAN BIODIESEL PLANT TO CONTROL OWN FUEL NEEDS
Winnipeg Free Press, 09/06/2008
A group of Beausejour-area grain producers is planning to build a biodiesel plant that uses canola oil, to take control of its fuel needs from big oil producers and help reduce farming's carbon imprint on the environment. Hans Muster, who farms near Beausejour, and three other farmers decided it was time to be in charge of their operations by forming Brokenhead River Biofuels Co-op Ltd.  Having attended alternative fuel trade shows and visited operating biodiesel facilities in Germany and Switzerland, the co-op will purchase its Canola crushing machinery from Germany, where farmers are burning 100 per cent biodiesel in their machinery.
>Contact the ITC Library to obtain this article.

LIGNOL TO BUILD COLORADO CELLULOSIC ETHANOL PLANT
Kris Bevill, Biomass Magazine, August 29, 2008
Vancouver-based Lignol Energy Corp., a cellulosic biomass technology developer, has announced that its U.S. subsidiary Lignol Innovations Inc. is moving forward with plans to locate its demonstration-scale cellulosic ethanol production facility in Grand Junction, Colo. The project is partially being funded by a $30 million grant from the U.S. DOE.
>Read more: http://www.biomassmagazine.com/article.jsp?article_id=1821&q=lignol

NEXTERRA SAYS TESTING SHOWS BIOMASS GASIFICATION READY TO DISPLACE FOSSIL FUELS
The Canadian Press, August 18, 2008
Nexterra Energy Corp., a private Vancouver-based biomass gasification company, said it has produced renewable synthesis gas that can displace fossil fuels for use in such industries as mining and forestry. After two years of testing, the company said it has produced renewable synthesis gas, or "syngas" with the ability to displace at least 60 per cent of fossil fuels used in lime kilns.
>Read more: http://www.canadianbusiness.com/markets/headline_news/article.jsp?content=b081865A

FEEDING THE POWER
P. Neroth, Engineering & Technology, August 8, 2008, p. 50
The author takes a look at the implications for the world's starving millions and growing food crops for fuel.  Of course, it is controversial as to the extent to which biofuels play a part in the hike in food prices.  There are other trends that are impacting food prices: urbanization in China and other Asian countries destroys prime agricultural land and forces their purchase of food elsewhere; increased demand for meat by growing middle classes in India causes increased demand for grain for feed; increased oil prices = increase transportation costs for food producers.  So where do biofuels fit in this picture?
>Read more: http://kn.theiet.org/magazine/issues/0813/feeding-0813.cfm

Web Sites

CANADIAN BIOENERGY ASSOCIATION
Canadian Bioenergy Association (CANBIO) is a national, industry-driven, non-profit organization of individuals, businesses and non-governmental organizations interested in the development, promotion and use of bioenergy.
>Web site: http://www.canbio.ca

OFFICE OF BIOBASED TECHNOLOGIES, MICHIGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
The Michigan State University Office of Biobased Technologies (OBT) aims to integrate innovations in the lab with advances in the marketplace to enhance the economy, the environment, and the quality of life in Michigan and around the globe. The website includes articles of research achievement by MSU scientists, an experts database, and relevant news items.
>Web site: http://www.bioeconomy.msu.edu/

WOODENERGY.IE 
Woodenergy.ie dedicated to bringing you factual information on using wood biomass as a carbon neutral, renewable energy source. The site is owned and managed by COFORD, the National Council for Forest Research and Development. More information on COFORD is available at www.coford.ie . There are many similarities between Ireland and Manitoba so maybe we can use this website to learn how the Irish are establishing a bioenergy development plan.
>Web site: http://www.woodenergy.ie/iopen24/

Publications

TECHNOLOGIES FOR COMMERCIAL PRODUCTION OF ALGAE
BBI International, 8/28/08
Challenges to Growing and Harvesting the Newest Feedstock on the Block addresses algae’s potential as the “silver-bullet” solution for today’s liquid fuel woes. The incredible volume of lipids (oils) algae can produce over a short period of time is an advantage, and the food source of algae – carbon dioxide and other pollutants – is a timely benefit. However, consistently growing and harvesting the much-touted single-celled organisms at the levels promised has proven to be difficult. This report reviews the state-of-the-art solutions to the challenges that exist in all aspects of algae production.
>To purchase: http://store.bbiinternational.com/Technologies-for-Commercial-Production-of-Algae-P11.aspx

U.S. CROP RESIDUE RESOURCE ASSESSMENT
BBI International, 8/28/08
U.S. Crop Residue Resource Assessment looks at how the emerging interest in renewable energy and value-added agriculture, coupled with rising energy prices, is creating markets for alternative feedstocks. Crop residues left over from harvesting – stalks, leaves, cobs, straw, branches and similar crop wastes – are promising renewable feedstocks. These residues can be used to generate heat and power or be converted into liquid transportation fuels. This report provides methods for quantifying crop residues, maps of concentrated production, and pricing estimates.
>To purchase: http://store.bbiinternational.com/US-Crop-Residue-Resource-Assessment-P10.aspx

WASTE(D) OPPORTUNITIES
BBI International, 8/28/08
Turning Carbohydrates Into Hydrocarbons gives an overview of the opportunities and technologies available to turn biomass waste streams into revenue generators. Energy costs are rising and many companies benefit from “going green.” Is your company generating waste? Various industries produce different wastes that can be processed in a variety of ways. In this concise report, you’ll learn how to reduce expenses while benefitting the environment. This introduction will make you look at waste streams as an opportunity, not a liability.
>To purchase: http://store.bbiinternational.com/Wasted-Opportunities-P12.aspx

September 16-17, 2008
BIOENERGY: DEVELOPING TRENDS AND NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR A CHANGING FOREST INDUSTRY
Halifax, NS
CANBIO & Canadian Woodlands Forum
>Details: http://www.canbio.ca/documents/Halifax08.pdf

September 18-19, 2008
PLATTS BIOMASS POWER FORUM
Houston, TX
>Details http://www.platts.com/Events/2008/pc836/index.xml

September 28-30, 2008
2008 ADVANCED BIOFUELS WORKSHOP & TRADE SHOW
Minneapolis, MN
>Details:http://www.advancedbiofuelsworkshop.com/ema/DisplayPage.aspx?pageId=Home

October 6-8, 2008
BIOENERGY: FROM WORDS TO ACTION
CANBIO Annual Bioenergy Conference & Trade Show
Ottawa, Canada
>Details: http://www.canbio.ca/events.html

October 6, 7, 8, 2008
RENEWABLE ENERGY FROM ORGANICS RECYCLING
Madison, Wisconsin
>Details:https://www.jgpress.com/conferences1/conferences1.html

October 19-21, 2008
4TH WORLD BIOFUELS SYMPOSIUM -- CHINA
Beijing, China
>Details: http://www.worldbiofuelssymposium.com/ema/DisplayPage.aspx?pageId=Registration

November 14-16, 2008
BIOFIBE 08: FROM FIELDS AND FORESTS TO MARKETS
Winnipeg, Manitoba
>Details: http://www.biofibe.com/index.html

December 1-2, 2008
GROWING BEYOND OIL : 5TH ANNUAL 2008 CANADIAN RENEWABLE FUELS SUMMIT
Gatineau-Ottawa, Québec, Canada
>Details: http://www.crfs2008.com/