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With enactment of the Energy Independence and Security Act of 2007 (H.R. 6) in December, we are embarking on a new energy policy path. This historic legislation couples increased vehicle efficiency and greater renewable fuel use, steps that can have an immediate impact toward securing a more sustainable energy and environmental future. The law increases the Renewable Fuels Standard (RFS) to 36 billion gallons of annual renewable fuel use by 2022. And by requiring that nearly 60 percent of the new RFS be met by advanced biofuels, including cellulosic ethanol, it paves the way for commercialization of these vital next generation ethanol technologies. Clearly, this legislation will change the way we fuel our country. Importantly, it’s also changing our environmental footprint from transportation fuels. The increased production and use of renewable fuels, particularly from cellulose feedstocks, will dramatically alter our environmental landscape, utilizing sustainable supplies of biomass while reducing fossil fuel use and harmful greenhouse gas emissions. 2007 will also be remembered for witnessing the ground-breaking on the first commercial-scale cellulosic ethanol biorefinery in the U.S. Range Fuels will utilize leftover wood residues from timber harvesting to produce ethanol at its facility near Soperton, Georgia. Others will soon follow, utilizing a variety of technologies and feedstocks. At the same time, existing biorefineries continue to lead with technological innovations that are improving plant efficiencies while reducing energy consumption. As you read on, you will find valuable information on the U.S. ethanol industry, including historical data and current statistics on ethanol and its co-products. 2008 promises to be an exciting and challenging year. As always, the U.S. ethanol industry is dedicated to working with all of our ustomers, suppliers and carriers to meet the energy needs of a growing marketplace while ensuring a more sustainable energy future for all Americans.

CNEN – Comissão Nacional de Energia Nuclear

2008 – Boletim de Energia – Acesso livre