New energy cane varietals in Louisiana have yields of up to 1240 gallons per acre

In Louisiana, the Agricultural Research Service, Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station and the American Sugar Cane League released three new varietals of energy cane. The cane is so named for the high sugar and fiber content. After sugar extraction, the bagasse is burned to provide heat for sugar and ethanol operations, although ARS researchers confirmed their hope that cellulosic ethanol processes could unlock sugars from the fiber itself.

The three varietals, one containing high fiber and two containing high fiber and sucrose were originally developed in summer 2007, and are estimated to yield as much as 1240 gallons per acre. ARS is currently attempting to develop varietals that tolerate cold weather, to expand the potential growing area.

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