There is some disagreement whether corn-based ethanol has a positive EROEI (energy returned on energy invested) or not, most leaning to the slightly positive side. And remember, the leftover material can still be used as a feedstock, probably healthier for the cows than the original (if not as good at 'beefing' them up). But unless there's a clear decrease in oil usage, it's not worth ramping up, except to reduce CO emissions on those ozone action days. Sugarcane-based ethanol is clearly better, and a price-competitive cellulosic ethanol is the holy grail, particularly if made from waste material. But in the short term, for an alternative-energy stock trader, VSE is one of the better stocks to keep an eye on.
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There is some disagreement whether corn-based ethanol has a positive EROEI (energy returned on energy invested) or not, most leaning to the slightly positive side. And remember, the leftover material can still be used as a feedstock, probably healthier for the cows than the original (if not as good at 'beefing' them up).
Apr 04 10:37 am
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All Comments by nerfer »Good News at VeraSun Energy [View article]
But unless there's a clear decrease in oil usage, it's not worth ramping up, except to reduce CO emissions on those ozone action days.
Sugarcane-based ethanol is clearly better, and a price-competitive cellulosic ethanol is the holy grail, particularly if made from waste material. But in the short term, for an alternative-energy stock trader, VSE is one of the better stocks to keep an eye on.