The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) has announced a significant investment of $20.2 million in 10 university and industry projects aimed at advancing the development of mixed algae for low-carbon aviation fuel and bioproducts. This initiative is focused on converting algae, including seaweeds and other wet waste feedstocks, into sustainable fuels, chemicals, and agricultural products.

The selected projects are spread across seven states. They will address crucial research and development (R&D) challenges related to converting these underutilized feedstocks into valuable products. These feedstocks, while abundant, pose unique challenges due to their variability, complex chemical composition, and storage instability.

This funding aligns with several national priorities, including the Sustainable Aviation Fuel Grand Challenge, the Executive Order on Advancing Biotechnology and Biomanufacturing Innovation, and the Clean Fuels & Products Shot. The DOE's investment is focused on two key areas:

Conversion of Seaweeds to Low-Carbon Fuels and Bioproducts

This research will involve laboratory-scale R&D to convert seaweeds and seaweed blends with other wet wastes into renewable fuels and bioproducts. The goal is to harness the potential of these abundant and accessible feedstocks and create new market opportunities.

Conversion of Algal Biomass for Low-Carbon Agricultural Bioproducts

This research will concentrate on near- or fully integrated technologies that utilize CO2 emissions from industrial facilities or power plants to grow algae. The produced algae will then be converted into value-added bioproducts for agriculture and animal feed.

This initiative is undertaken by the Bioenergy Technologies Office (BETO) and the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management (FECM).

Addressing Climate Change and Economic Growth

Jeff Marootian, Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office of Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy emphasized the importance of this investment in building a secure supply chain of biomass resources. He stated, "These innovative projects will be essential to building a secure supply chain of biomass resources that can change how we fuel our industries with cleaner, net-zero emission options. It's an honor to see our federal energy offices investing together in projects that address the climate crisis, create well-paying jobs, and accelerate our nation's clean energy bioeconomy."

Brad Crabtree, Assistant Secretary for the Office of Fossil Energy and Carbon Management, highlighted the role of carbon conversion in the transition to a net-zero economy. He said, "By transforming carbon emissions captured from industrial operations and power plants into agricultural products, carbon conversion plays a critical role in the transition to a net-zero economy. Today's investments will help demonstrate carbon conversion technologies that yield products that target hard to decarbonize sectors of our economy while also providing significant greenhouse gas and environmental benefits over incumbent products."

By addressing these critical challenges and aligning with national priorities, the DOE's investment in algae-based biofuel and bioproduct research holds the potential to significantly contribute to a more sustainable and resilient energy future.