Innovation minister lauds research into alternative fuels and says sugarcane waste could soon propel trucks
July 14, 2011
Trucks could soon be running on fuel made from sugarcane waste, Innovation Minister Kim Carr says.
Visiting Queensland University of Technology’s bio-commodities research plant in Mackay yesterday, Carr claimed a sugarcane blend could eventually be used in the trucking industry and in cars and aeroplanes.
QUT Professor James Dale says researchers have converted sugarcane waste (or biomass) into ethanol.
“I am pleased that this plant is not only working to create biofuels from waste, they are committed to helping Australian industries access and utilise the renewable energy,” Carr says.
He says access to cleaner fuels will help the transport industry thrive in future.
The Department of Treasury predicts biodiesel to displace diesel as the most common fuel used in heavy vehicles by 2030.
Carr says the Federal Government will commit significant funds to biofuel research when the carbon tax begins on July 1, 2012.
He says the $200 million Clean Technology Innovation Program will support private investment in renewable energy, low emissions technology and energy efficiency measures.
The Australian Renewable Energy Agency will administer $3.2 billion in government grants for research and development into renewable energy technology.