A cellulosic ethanol industry is projected to emerge early in the next decade and to contribute substantial ethanol projection by the end of the decade. This session will address challenges and opportunities with the major likely biofeedstock crops of this industry, in particular miscanthus, switchgrass and trees, as well as critical economic considerations for their adoption.



Objectives:

Provide an overview of the dedicated energy crops that are projected as major cellulosic feedstocks for ethanol production.

Understand the variety improvement needs for these crops and the challenges to their full adoption.

Outline the economic factors critical to the success of the cellulosic ethanol industry based on use of these crops.