Renewable fuels refer to energy sources that can be renewed. Examples include hydrogen fuel or biofuels. They are different to non-renewablefuels like natural gas, petroleum and other fossilfuels. This can include nuclear energy. There are many current initiatives to develop renewable fuels, and the technologies required to produce them.
Cellulosic Biofuels
Cellulosic biofuels, which are made from biomass, are clean and renewable energy sources. This energy source has enormous potential to make the US energy independent. The National Renewable Energy Laboratory is a Colorado-based laboratory that has been producing cellulosic ethanol for over 25 years. The company manages the National Bioenergy Center, which has developed cellulosic ethanol as a drop-in alternative to gasoline.
Biodiesel
Biodiesel, which is made from renewable resources, is cleaner-burning than petroleum diesel. It also has lower emissions than petroleum and is biodegradable (as fast as sugar). It has many advantages for the environment, and the economy. Biodiesel may be produced from locally grown crops. Some projects even turn kitchen waste into biodiesel.
Bioethanol
Bioethanol is a renewable fuel that can be produced by fermenting sugars in the presence of oxygen. The yeasts are facultative anaerobes living in sugar-rich environments. You can obtain yeasts for bioethanol production from culture collections or from their natural environments. The best yeasts for bioethanol production are those that are naturally grown. They are more efficient at converting sugars and alcohol.
Biomethane
Although the industry for biomethane is small, it has significant growth potential. It can also be used in existing infrastructure. Policy changes that reduce the carbon footprint of gas supply will determine the future growth of the biomethane market.
Bio-diesel
Bio-diesel can be described as an alternative fuel, which is made from renewable resources. It is the preferred fuel of the U.S. government. It is also used in manufacturing and construction. This renewable fuel will experience significant growth as diesel-powered vehicles become less popular. Diesel-powered cars make up less than 1% of passenger car sales in the U.S.
Bio-ethanol
Ethanol is a renewable fuel produced by the fermentation of carbon-based feedstocks. These feedstocks are renewable because they make use of sunlight for energy and then return all the nutrients to the ground. These feedstocks include sugarcane, bagasse, sugar beets, and cellulose wastes.