3-03: Genera Energy’s sustainable biomass logistics and preprocessing system

The development of the cellulosic biofuels supply chain, from biomass to fuels and products, will have a significant impact on the energy future of the nation. These new systems, technologies, and products will provide increased economic opportunities for rural economies, increased energy security for the nation, and improved environmental impacts of energy production/utilization.  In addition, establishing biomass supply chains that are sustainable in economic, social, and environmental terms are critical to the success of the industry. Through experiences gained in the demonstration and commercialization of switchgrass to energy in Tennessee, Genera Energy has developed a dedicated bioenergy crop supply chain to supply multiple end users, including a 250,000 gallon per year demonstration cellulosic ethanol facility, owned by Genera Energy and operated by Dupont Cellulosic Ethanol. Working with private agricultural and industrial partners, Genera continues to establish a dedicated energy crop (switchgrass) supply chain via its current 5,100 acres of switchgrass in production on over 60 different farms. Its efforts related to transferring biomass from farm to collection point, including handling and storage, has focused on improving cost structures and energy efficiencies of the process. Genera has also constructed and is now operating a 50,000 ton per year preprocessing facility that focuses on converting multiple types of raw biomass into a uniform feedstock for downstream users. An overview of the systems that Genera utilizes will be provided.