Penn State researchers helping Woodland Biomass Innovations plan operations

In Pennsylvania, researchers in the Penn State College of Agricultural Sciences are working with the entrepreneur behind the proposed startup of an innovative woody biomass-to-energy facility planned for north central Pennsylvania to determine if the planned operation will be sustainable and ecologically sound.

Woodland Biomass Innovations is developing a proposed operation that promises to convert roughly 1,000 tons of regional wood residues per day into 42,000 gallons of gasoline, biochar and renewable electricity. Company founder Luca Pandolfi plans to build his facility in Tioga County, where it can be fed by surrounding dense forests partially composed of small-diameter trees that mostly go to waste in timbering operations.

The novel partnership between the college and the startup benefits students, the startup and the state.

Tags: Penn State, Pennsylvania, Woodland Biomass Innovations

Category: Fuels