Ethanol Facilities Demonstrate Exceptional Energy Savings
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency has recognized POET Biorefining in Ashton, Iowa, and East Kansas Agri-Energy, LLC in Garnett, Kan., for reducing energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions, according to a June 17 press release.
These facilities received Energy Star awards at the 24th annual International Fuel Ethanol Workshop and Expo in Nashville, Tenn.
"EPA is proud to recognize the outstanding pollution reduction and energy efficiency qualities of both ethanol facilities by presenting these ENERGY STAR Combined Heat and Power Awards. These facilities in Iowa and Kansas are making improvements that contribute to a cleaner and healthier environment," said EPA Region 7 Administrator John B. Askew.
In April 2004, POET began full production at an ethanol plant in Ashton. Electricity is generated by a natural gas-fired turbine, which requires approximately 16 percent less fuel than typical on-site thermal generation and purchased electricity. Based on this comparison, the system reduces carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 18,900 tons per year, which is equivalent to removing the annual emissions from 3,100 cars or planting 3,900 acres of forest.
"POET is dedicated to making the process of producing ethanol even more efficient and environmentally friendly, so it's an honor to be recognized by EPA for the environmental benefits of the efficiencies built into our Ashton plant," said POET Chief Executive Officer Jeff Broin.
The East Kansas Agri-Energy dry mill ethanol plant in Garnett began production in 2005. The steam turbine system generates approximately one-third of the facility's electrical demands. It requires approximately 23 percent less fuel than typical on-site thermal generation and purchased electricity. Based on this comparison, the plant reduces carbon dioxide emissions by an estimated 14,500 tons per year, which is equivalent to removing the annual emissions from 2,400 cars or planting 3,000 acres of forest.
"Our East Kansas Agri-Energy plant includes an energy-efficient system, which transforms a requirement to control air pollution into an opportunity to address the plant's energy demands," said Plant Manager Doug Sommer.
Dry mill ethanol facilities require large-scale, constant electricity and thermal loads, making these facilities an excellent fit for this innovative technology. These highly efficient and economical systems can use a variety of fuels, including natural gas or biomass. They also can improve the overall environmental benefits of biofuels by reducing the greenhouse gases associated with ethanol production.
This Energy Star program recognizes projects that reduce emissions and use at least five percent less fuel than state-of-the-art, comparable separate heat and power generation. To apply, projects must be in commercial operation, operating within the emission limits stipulated in their permits, and have a minimum of 12 months and 5,000 hours of measured operating data.