Alternative energy plant planned for Tuscaloosa area (AL)

[jpak]

http://www.centredaily.com/mld/centredaily/business/16039749.htm

TUSCALOOSA, Ala. - Alternative fuel plants are sprouting up across Alabama, with U.S. Energy Inc. planning an $87 million project in Tuscaloosa County.

The Tuscaloosa County Industrial Development Authority approved tax abatements for the alternative fuels plant on Thursday. U.S. Energy president and chief executive Mark Warner said the plant is expected to employ 54 people and could produce biodiesel, ethanol and methanol.

Biodiesel is a renewable, clean-burning fuel made from vegetable oils and animal fats. Ethanol and methanol are alcohol-based fuels mixed with standard gasoline to reduce emissions.

Alabama is quickly becoming more involved in producing alternative fuels, with one major biodiesel plant and two more nearing completion. The state's largest biodiesel plant, Alabama Biodiesel Corp., is located in Moundsville south of Tuscaloosa with a capacity of more than 10 million gallons a year.

<more>