Emerald Energy’s MegaFlora tree has 2X the biomass yield compared to sugar cane, 4X of switchgrass, say company execs

In Ohio, Emerald Energy said that it is in the process of commercializing its MegaFlora tree, a high biomass density tree for cellulosic ethanol production. The company said that the MegaFlora tree can be grown in marginal soils, with an annual harvestable yield of up to 27 bone dry tons of biomass per acre, compared to 13 tons for sugar cane or 6 tons for switchgrass. The company said that its hybrid-cross product was sterile, making it non-invasive. The company said that MegaFlora plantations would improve water quality, and can be planted in salt-, heavy metal- or high pH-contaminated soils.

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