Minnesota Pushes Cellulosic Ethanol

ST. PAUL - Nov 2/06 - SNS -- Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner Gene Hugoson has called for creation of a working group to focus on cellulosic ethanol.

"Minnesota has the resources, the energy and the expertise to lead the nation in this new and promising technology," Commissioner Hugoson said. "Just as we have done with ethanol from corn, we can continue to lead the nation toward the next generation of homegrown, renewable energy."

The idea is based on the notions:

* Cellulosic ethanol is a promising approach to renewable energy that can enhance traditional ethanol production using corn stover, and extend the benefits of ethanol to new production areas in northern Minnesota due to the availability of wood by-products and grasses for energy feedstocks.

* Minnesota researchers are making progress in developing the technological expertise to efficiently convert cellulosic feedstocks into ethanol.

* Significant barriers that must be overcome include refinement of enzymatic research, access to capital, and efficient transportation of cellulosic feedstock.