The ethanol energy balance: corn v sugar cane. Latest estimate.

Comment Policy

Is libelous
Is abusive, harassing, or threatening
Is obscene, vulgar, or profane
Is racially, ethnically or religiously offensive
Is illegal or encourages criminal acts
Is known to be inaccurate or contains a false attribution
Infringes copyrights, trademarks, publicity or any other rights of others
Impersonates anyone (actual or fictitious)
Solicits funds, goods or services, or advertises

Gas price blues mean workplace blahs, FSU study says | Main | 2008 session: Green or greenwashed? »

May 06, 2008

The ethanol energy balance: corn v sugar cane. Latest estimate.

My colleague Andrew Downie in Brazil just sent me the latest estimate of the comparative energy balance of corn ethanol versus sugar cane ethanol, according to the Brazilian sugar cane industry, UNICA.

"For each unit of fossil energy used to produce Brazilian sugar cane ethanol, 9.3 units of renewable energy are generated, an energy balance that is over four times better than that of ethanol from sugar beet and
wheat, and seven times that of corn ethanol."

It's worth bearing in mind during the current debate over renewable energy and the impact on food prices.

- David Adams

Posted by Times Editor at 1:09:05 PM on May 6, 2008
in Ethanol | Permalink

Comments

I tend to agree with this article, I feel that along with oil prices, corn ethanol is also driving up food prices.

Posted by: N.Walter | May 08, 2008 at 10:20 AM

About This Blog

Global warming, gas prices, "green" living – how can you keep up with it all? The Fueling Station is your source for energy and environment news in Florida and beyond. From alternative energy to wetlands, Times reporters David Adams, Asjylyn Loder, Craig Pittman and Catriona Stuart provide the latest news, and let you know how it impacts your life, your pocketbook and your world. We welcome your ideas, experiences and opinions.

E-mail the blog authors:
thefuelingstation@yahoo.com.