The Energy Futures Initiative Foundation (EFIF), led by former U.S. Secretary of Energy Ernest J. Moniz, has released a groundbreaking study outlining pathways to further decarbonize ethanol production. The research reveals a compelling vision for a future where ethanol achieves near net-zero carbon intensity by 2035 and even negative carbon intensity by 2050.
The study emphasizes the crucial role of low-carbon liquid fuels in the transition to a decarbonized transportation sector, highlighting ethanol’s leadership in providing affordable low-carbon alternatives. “Low-carbon liquid fuels will be essential for decarbonizing transportation, and ethanol has been the leader in the move to affordable low-carbon fuels,” said Ernest J. Moniz, the 13th Secretary of Energy. “Through this research, we identified a portfolio of relatively low-cost solutions that can take ethanol close to a net zero fuel by 2035.”
The study identifies nine cost-effective measures that can be implemented to significantly reduce ethanol’s carbon footprint. These measures include:
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Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage (CCUS) of the fermentation process
: This technology captures carbon dioxide emissions during ethanol production and either stores them underground or utilizes them for other purposes.*
Low carbon energy use at biorefineries
: This involves using combined heat and power generation with biomass and relying on carbon-free electricity sources to power biorefinery operations.*
Climate-smart agriculture practices
: Implementing sustainable agricultural practices like planting cover crops, no-till farming, and using enhanced efficiency fertilizers can reduce emissions associated with ethanol production.Beyond its benefits for on-road transportation, the research underscores the potential of low-carbon ethanol to contribute to the development of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). This opens up new avenues for ethanol production, helping to sustain the ethanol supply chain and support the rural economy.
The report calls for policy recommendations to accelerate the adoption of these measures, including timely guidance on the 45Z clean fuels production tax credit slated to take effect in 2025 under the Inflation Reduction Act. The research also emphasizes the potential of low-carbon ethanol to help reduce emissions not only in the transportation sector but also in hard-to-abate sectors like aviation.
This comprehensive study, sponsored by Growth Energy, involved months of research by EFIF staff to analyze the carbon intensity reduction potential, feasibility, and cost-effectiveness of 21 different measures implemented on farms and at biorefineries across the United States. All nine initiatives ultimately recommended are currently in use at select facilities and farms.
“EFIF’s recommendations are as practical as they are robust, reflecting innovations our members and their farm partners are already embracing,” said Emily Skor, CEO of Growth Energy. “We are proud of our industry’s progress to date and look forward to seeing biofuels continue to deliver on ambitious carbon reduction goals.”
The full study will be released in conjunction with the Clinton Global Initiative Annual Summit during Climate Week NYC.
