Pennsylvania biomass center proposed; supporters say will lead to 12,000 jobs

In Pennsylvania, a proposal has been introduced for a biomass conversion center in Clearfield that would provide job training and other service to up to 10 biofuels plants around the state, and would include a 30 Mgy ethanol plant at the Clearfield complex. A sponsor of the proposal, state Rep. Camille “Bud” George, said the center would create 12,000 jobs across the state and reduce foreign oil dependence by 900 million gallons per year.

Gov. Rendell’s energy plan calls for a $850 million Energy Independence Fund, funded by a bond issue.

$500 million would be invested in clean-energy projects such as biofuel plants and solar and advanced coal technologies, $100 million granted to Pennsylvania firms expanding clean-energy production, and money for grants to partly reimburse homeowners and small businesses for installation of solar panels, energy-efficient air-conditioners, refrigerators, and smart electricity meters.

The bond would be paid off with a new energy utility tax.

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