ABO’s annual survey shows flourishing industry

In Washington, the Algae Biomass Organization’s annual survey of the algae industry shows that the industry that is growing, from increased production of biomass and oils, to increased hiring, to a wider variety of end products. As in the previous two annual surveys, respondents this year continued their optimism that algae-derived fuels are likely to be price competitive with fossil fuels by 2020 (83% agreement); that production will increase in existing and new facilities (72 percent agreement); and that improved supportive federal policy would accelerate both the production of algae-based fuels, feeds, fertilizers and other products as well as the number of jobs across the industry (86 percent agreement).

Regulatory approvals for siting algae industry facilities as well as algae-derived products were cited as the top two priorities for federal policies not yet enacted, suggesting that companies are looking forward to moving from research and testing stages to commercialization. Tax credits and incentives as well as the Renewable Fuel Standard were ranked the top two existing federal policies, suggesting companies seek a level playing field with fossil fuels and other biofuels, as well as a predictable policy environment.

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