State puts $15 million into renewable energy (orange peel ethanol +, FL)

[jpak]

http://www.palmbeachpost.com/politics/content/business/epaper/2007/02/23/a15b_altenergy_0223.html

TALLAHASSEE — Florida's renewable energy industry, from ethanol production to solar power, received a huge boost Thursday with the awarding of eight state grants totaling $15 million. Several South Florida companies were among the recipients.

"This is a major step in Florida's effort to establish a meaningful renewable-energy industry," said Agriculture Commissioner Charles Bronson.

Three of the grants - at $2.5 million each - were given to companies planning to produce fuel ethanol from citrus peel, sugar cane, corn and other feedstocks. Florida does not have any fuel ethanol plants in operation.

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"It is an agricultural residue that is really a nuisance, and we will turn it into ethanol," Stewart said.

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[Mojorabbit]

1. I hope the orange peel works

I'd love to see a halt to all the groves being sold for development.