The Institute for Advanced Learning and Research in Danville will receive nearly three-quarters of a million dollars from the federal government to help research biofuels.
Virginia Senators Mark Warner (D) and Jim Webb (D), along with 5th District Congressman Tom Perriello (D) announced on Thursday a $734,759 rant from the U.S. Department of Energy's Office of Science. The money will be used for "research aimed at improving and accelerating genetic plant breeding programs to create plants better suited for bioenergy production," according to the release.
The program is focused on non-food plant fiber for biofuel production, with an emphasis on perennials that can be used as dedicated biofuel crops.
"Our area's rich agricultural heritage positions us to be leaders in developing biofuels that will increase our energy security, improve our environment, and create new jobs," said Rep. Perriello in the news release. "I am excited and proud to see the next generation of new energy jobs and investments taking hold right here in Southside."
"When I visited Danville's Institute for Advanced Learning and Research earlier this year, I saw firsthand their ability to link education to economic development in the Southside region," said Senator Webb in the news release. "This funding will help bring more good jobs to the region to develop new domestic energy sources which our country needs."
"I have long been a supporter of the Institute and its unique role in efforts to generate new economic resources for Southside," said Senator Warner in the release. "I am very pleased that the Institute will have a role in our efforts to build a clean energy economy through cost-effective, sustainable biofuels."
For more information on the individual projects and the joint DOE-USDA Plant Feedstocks Genomics for Bioenergy research program, visit:
http://genomicscience.energy.gov/research/DOEUSDA/index.shtml
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