Source: Keith Rutlin, 785-532-2029, rutlin@k-state.edu
Website: http://www.sustainable-energy.ksu.edu

Wednesday, Nov. 24, 2010

EXPERT TO DISCUSS FUTURE BIOFUEL NEEDS, SUPPLY SYSTEMS

MANHATTAN -- The Center for Sustainable Energy at Kansas State University is sponsoring a presentation on bioenergy by Jacob Jacobson, principal investigator with the Bioenergy Systems Group at the Idaho National Laboratory.

Jacobson will discuss "Bioenergy Feedstock Logistics System Model to Meet the U.S. Department of Energy's 36 Billion Gallon Per Year Renewable Fuel Goal" from 8:30-9:20 a.m. Thursday, Dec. 2, in the Fiedler Hall Auditorium. His presentation is open to the public.

Jacobson will discuss the Integrated Biomass Supply Analysis and Logistics-System Dynamics model, which is a new biomass feedstock supply logistics system. The systems in use today are adequate for the volume of biomass being used currently for biofuel production. But they will be inadequate in terms of cost and quality targets to meet a DOE goal of producing 36 billion gallons annually of renewable fuels by 2030.

The Integrated Biomass Supply Analysis and Logistics-System Dynamics model is being used to develop a biomass feedstock logistic system that can move vast volumes of biomass through the supply system at less than 25 percent of the total end-use price.

Jacobson's presentation will give an overview of DOE's vision on biofuel development, discuss the model, and look at how the Idaho National Laboratory is helping to support that vision through the development of a uniform format biomass supply system.

Jacobson's fields of expertise include systems analysis and advanced modeling and simulation. His work has been in the development and analysis of decision support systems to evaluate policy options and business risks of complex energy and environmental systems. Applications include evaluation of long-term feedstock logistics, stewardship issues, impacts from pollution on aquifers, future land use planning scenarios, nuclear fuel cycle analysis, and development of energy and greenhouse gas emission inventory and evaluation of carbon mitigation alternatives.

Using research and educational efforts, the Center for Sustainable Energy at K-State works to provide sustainable, renewable energy while maintaining the environment and providing an adequate food supply. K-State offers significant educational and scientific resources related to the complete cycle of biofuels production. Basic and applied research, education and outreach activities are components of the center. More than 30 faculty from across campus, including the colleges of Agriculture, Arts and Sciences, and Engineering, are involved in center activities. More information on the center is available at http://www.sustainable-energy.ksu.edu.