Bioenergy

By now, many have heard about the little green bugs crawling into the news, firewood and millions of ash trees across the country. The Emerald Ash Borer (EAB) is this invasive species that will soon infect and kill most of the ash trees in Minnesota. Minnesota is especially susceptible to this infestation because ash makes up a staggering 15 percent of the total tree population in the state. In the next few decades it is expected that almost all of these trees will need to be removed and replaced, making it one of Minnesota’s greatest challenges today.

When people think about the clean energy economy, what comes to mind? Solar photovoltaic and wind energy are likely at the top of the list. Perhaps other renewable sources of energy like solar heating, ground-source heating and cooling, geothermal power, or hydroelectric. Or non-renewable low carbon technologies like fossil energy with carbon capture or nuclear power. While these are all important, biomass and the bioeconomy are also key contributors to a clean energy economy.

Did you know organic material like forest thinnings and manure from farm animals is a great source of energy? It’s called bioenergy and can be used to power heating, cooling, and generate electricity — and at Koda Energy in Shakopee, Minnesota, that’s exactly what’s being done!

When you’re stumbling out of bed, and groggily pouring yourself a bowl of Cheerios – we’re guessing the furthest thing from your mind is how that cereal was made – and even further from your thoughts – what happens to the wasted oat hulls after your cereal is processed?