EERC's Biomass '09 workshop coming to Alerus Center July 14-15 The Energy & Environmental Research Center (EERC) announces that the Biomass '09: Power, Fuels, and Chemicals Workshop will be held at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks July 14-15. The Biomass '09 Workshop, the seventh of its kind, offers an intense two-day technical program focused on the opportunities for the utilization of biomass (i.e., plant matter such as straw, corn, and wood residue) for power, transportation fuels, and chemicals. An expanded exhibit show at the Alerus Center will accompany the workshop sessions. The workshop is geared toward industry, research entities, government, community and economic development corporations, financial institutions, and landowners. Topics include trends and opportunities in utilizing biomass: renewable policies and incentives; second- and third-generation renewable fuels, such as cellulosic ethanol and renewable diesel; financing biomass projects; new innovations in biodiesel production; biorefinery chemicals and products; biomass for heat and electricity; and biomass feedstock potential. "Even before the current economic crisis, the United States had set aggressive sustainable biofuels and bioenergy targets," said EERC Deputy Associate Director for Research Chris Zygarlicke. "This workshop will bring together a talented group of engaging speakers with real-world solutions for aiding the economy by utilizing biomass generated right here in the northern Great Plains." "Biomass '09 is an opportunity to meet with researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, and project developers and learn about recent advances in the area of using agricultural and forest residues, energy crops, and municipal biomass residues for transportation fuels and energy," said EERC Director Gerald Groenewold. Biomass '09 is sponsored by the Centers for Renewable Energy and Biomass Utilization, one of the EERC's 10 Centers of Excellence, and the U.S. Department of Energy. The North Dakota Department of Commerce Division of Community Services State Energy Program is a Signature Sponsor. Workshop fees are $275 a person and include access to all of the technical sessions, the exhibit floor, workshop materials, and food. For more information on registering or becoming a sponsor or an exhibitor, visit www.undeerc.org/biomass09. Biomass '08, held in July 2008, attracted over 300 registrants, representing 175 organizations, 30 states, and two foreign countries (Canada and India). -- EERC.