A broad-based program making renewable energy from biofuel crops remains under way at the Clemson University Pee Dee Research and Education Center.
It is called the Switchgrass for Biofuels’ Research and Outreach program. Among its purposes is to produce cleaner energy that will reduce fuel costs and the United States’ reliance on foreign oil.
More than 20 scientists from such agencies as Clemson University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and Savannah River National Laboratory are involved.
They are looking at such factors as new methods of crop management, environmental and economic impacts of production, genetic development of new varieties, and efficiencies in converting plant material to fuel.
The program received a boost with $250,000 in grants from the S.C. General Assembly. The grants were announced by state Sen. Gerald Malloy, D-Hartsville, and Reps. Denny Neilson and Robert Williams, both D-Darlington.
Research studies will focus on using switchgrass (Panicum virgatum) to make ethanol as well as for burning in electric power plants.
Switchgrass is a summer perennial grass native to North America. It is resistant to many pests and plant diseases and is capable of producing high yields. Switchgrass also is tolerant of poor soils, flooding and drought.
Dr. Jim Frederick is the coordinator for the biofuel research group. He is a professor at the Clemson University Pee Dee Research and Education Center.
“Making renewable energy from biofuel crops can be a major industry in South Carolina and a much needed economic boost to rural communities,” Frederick said. “Growing switchgrass can also improve our sandy soils, enhance air quality and provide good habitat for a number of wildlife species without competing with food crops.”
Frederick said any type of plant material can potentially be used to make ethanol, if it is in abundant supply.
“We are also examining the economic and energy benefits of using crops such as sweet sorghum and corn stalks to make ethanol,” he said.
And crops might not be the only source of material to make biofuel. Scientists throughout the U.S. are researching several other energy sources such as algae, municipal waste and plant species from other countries.
“No one energy source is going to supply all our energy needs,” Frederick said, “but biofuel crops can go a long way in helping fight the continued rise in energy costs and keeping the environment clean.”
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