California Energy Commission approves $5.4 million in grants for biofuel

In California, the state’s Energy Commission approved grants and contracts through the Alternative and Renewable Fuel and Vehicle Technology Program (ARFVTP), which supports the development and use of alternative and renewable fuel projects and advanced transportation technologies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on petroleum-based fuels.

Awardees for the $7.7 million include:

Pacific Ethanol Development, LLC: $3 million grant to develop and use sorghum feedstock that will lead to the production of low-carbon transportation fuel in Madera and Stockton.

The City of San Mateo: $2.4 million grant to produce low-carbon biomethane from the unused digester gas generated at the city’s wastewater treatment plant. The biomethane will be used to fuel fleet vehicles. According to city officials, this project will create 2 full-time jobs and 15-20 part-time jobs.