Promising biofuel composition should be researched, says US group

A group of next-generation energy firms in the US is calling for research into the most promising options for biofuel composition that can reduce the country's reliance on oil.

In addition to the environmental benefits of adopting a biofuel composition with high efficiency and no need for non-renewable resources in its production, the group adds that there are advantages both economically and in terms of energy independence.

The Biotechnology Industry Organization (BIO), Advanced BioFuels Association and Algal Biomass Organization have now written to US president Barack Obama to highlight their belief that research into next-generation fuels should be pursued.

Brent Erickson, executive vice-president of the industrial and environmental section at BIO, says: "A comprehensive national policy is needed to rapidly develop and produce large volumes of advanced biofuels to reduce reliance on foreign oil."

In the UK, following last week's Comprehensive Spending Review announcement from chancellor of the Exchequer George Osborne, the Department of Energy and Climate Change revealed new funding for eco-friendly energy generation.

A refocusing of the feed-in tariffs scheme also means the most efficient power production methods are to receive the greatest assistance in future.