Short Takes in Biofuels: California Energy Commission, Bio Architecture Lab

In California, the California Energy Commission adopted a 2013-2014 Investment Plan Update to support the development and use of green vehicles and alternative fuels. Funding sources include small surcharges on vehicle and vessel registrations, and license plate and smog abatement fees.

The 2013-2014 plan update allocates $100 million to projects, and includes $23 million for biofuels production and supply, with an emphasis on fuels made from waste-based and other low-carbon, sustainable materials. In addition, the plan allocates $5 million for manufacturing projects, supporting economic development and clean transportation technology; $4 million to “emerging opportunities,” not specifically tied to any single fuel or technology type, with a priority for projects that can leverage federal funding; $3.5 million for regional alternative fuel readiness and planning; and $2 million for centers for alternative fuels and advanced vehicles. The state’s investments have matching fund requirements for awardees, and are made on a reimbursement basis after invoices are submitted, reviewed and approved.

Download the plan here.

In California, Bio Architecture Lab announced that it is shifting business strategy to add Contract Research Organization services. BAL has bio-engineered its key microbe to digest all resident carbohydrates in brown seaweed and produce economically efficient renewable fuels.

“We will continue to focus our product strategy on the scale-up of renewable products from seaweed biomass and other carbohydrate sources,” said Ric Lucien, BAL CEO. “Now we’re offering our services to a wide range of industries to further expand the impact and reach of our technical staff.”