Henry Praises Approval Of Biofuels Measure

The state Senate Energy Committee today unanimously approved an ambitious plan by Governor Brad Henry to help position Oklahoma as a global leader in biofuels. Senate Bill 510 would establish the Oklahoma Bioenergy Center (OBC) to coordinate research and development of biofuels at Oklahoma State University, the University of Oklahoma and the Ardmore-based Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation.

“Renewable energy is an important part of the nation’s energy future, especially in light of the fact that more than half of our nation’s oil supply comes from foreign sources,” Henry said. “Oklahoma’s expertise in energy and agriculture issues makes us ideally suited for a pivotal role in biofuels development. The Oklahoma Bioenergy Center would help diversify our state’s economy, protect our environment, create high-paying jobs and contribute to a revitalization of rural Oklahoma.”

Biofuels research supported by the OBC would include development of feedstocks (primarily cellulosic biomass), collection and transportation, conversion technologies and distribution. Because the center would provide a particular boost for the state’s rural and agricultural economy, it would also feature an education component to help interested farmers and ranchers make the transition to energy crops and adopt best management practices.

SB 510 is authored by state Sen. Jay Paul Gumm (D-Durant).

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