OSU and research partners receive $1.28 million biofuels grant

Wednesday, August 17, 2011

Dr. Yanqi Wu, associate professor in the Department of Plant and Soil Sciences at OSU, is research co-leader for a biofuels project that was recently awarded a $1.28 million grant from the U.S. Department of Energy.

The research is focused on improving energy output from switchgrass plants during conversion to biofuels, including the study of plant materials to increase efficiency and economic feasibility. Wu will work with researchers from OU and the Samuel Roberts Noble Foundation on the project.

The Departments of Agriculture and Energy have awarded 10 grants totaling $12.2 million to spur research into improving the efficiency and cost-effectiveness of growing biofuel and bioenergy crops. The grants are part of a broader effort to develop domestic renewable energy and provide for America’s energy needs while creating new opportunities for American farming.  Initial funding will support research projects for up to three years.