Genera launches TN funds

Genera Energy, led by CEO Kelly Tiller, Ph.D., is launching the first of several new innovation funds, to support biomass energy development and related businesses in Tennessee. VNC's story is here.

DOE has $30MM for biofuels grants

US Department of Energy announced yesterday it has up to $30MM to fund biomass-biofuel related projects over the next few years. Five projects are expected to receive funding. Release here.

Memphis Biofuels entrepreneurs faces challenges

BioEnergy Development Group faces challenges as it seeks to recapitalize, but AgBioworks, an initiative of Memphis Bioworks is helping develop the sector. The MDN reports.

Dupont Danisco, Genera partnership spurs enthusiasm

The folks in the Eastate are getting pretty pumped about their role in clean energy, especially given the region's new public-private push for biofuels manufacturing. On Friday, the DuPont Danisco Cellulosic Ethanol LLC plant (headed by Joe Skurla, at left) will have its grand opening, and officials are predicting the pilot operation will become a magnet for visitors (and potential investors) from all over. Genera Energy is also getting a good deal of related grants funding, according to Sunday's story by Larisa Brass in the Knoxville News Sentinel.

More renewable-energy benefit

A study by the University of Tennessee's Bio-Based Energy Analysis Group says there are "significant market opportunities" for agriculture, if Congress enacts a national renewable energy standard (RES) policy. Standards would increase the share of electricity generated by renewable-resource means, and produce new jobs and wealth, directly and indirectly. The release is here.

Memphis Energy conference

The 2009 TAPPI International Bioenergy and Bioproducts Conference (IBBC) will be held October 14-16 in Memphis. Details here.