Minnesota study proposes vehicle efficiency, cellulosic ethanol, and power from biomass in bid to meet new state emissions law

In Minnesota, a study by the state’s Center for Transportation Studies has proposed a series of measures to ensure compliance with a new state law that wilol reduce carbon emissions 15 percent by 2015 and 80 percent by 2050.

The report outlines proposals for fuel economy, increased availability of public transportation and the deployment of low-emission fuels. It calls for fees imposed on low fuel economy vehicles and rebates for high-efficinecy vehicles. The report also calls for more emphasis on cellulosic ethanol and electricity generated from biomass, instead of coal, to power hybrids. The report can be downloaded here.

In related news, the Star Tribune reported on a growing number of Minnesotans who are blending ethanol above 10 percent in non-flex fuel cars, to save money or support US energy independence. The US EPA reinforced that this is a violation of Clean Air Laws because of harm to the emission systems of older cars, and vehicle manufacturers warned against engine damage and corrossion.

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