February 2, 2007

scientists react to announcement that BP biosciences institute will go to USA

The Energy Biosciences Institute will research the production of new, cleaner energy, initially focussing on transport biofuels, and will be based on campuses in Berkeley and Illinois.

Professor Tony Bridgwater, Leader, Bioenergy Research Group, Aston University, said:

“While it is disappointing that the UK was not chosen to lead this major new initiative, the proposed partnership has excellent credentials and will be able to support the rapidly growing bioethanol industry in the Americas. In addition the US Government is committing increasing support to production of biomass and bioenergy to improve security of supply of transport fuels as oil costs escalate and supplies become less certain. Bioethanol can replace up to 5% of gasoline by blending or up to 100% in fuel flexible vehicles, but is more difficult to mix with diesel which is a more popular fuel in Europe.

“Europe is taking a more comprehensive approach to meeting the targets for renewable energy and fuels through a balanced portfolio of 1 st and 2 nd generation biofuel technologies that are driven by the need to reduce CO2 emissions and provide increased security of supply. 2nd generation technologies are based on processing wood and energy crops that give higher biomass yields than traditional food based crops such as sugar and vegetable oil, and are particularly suitable for land limited regions. Second generation biofuels include bioethanol from wood and energy crops as well as synthetic hydrocarbons that are completely compatible with conventional diesel and gasoline in any proportion as well as being much cleaner.

“The UK already has a very active and successful first generation biofuel activity with extensive and expanding biodiesel production plants and a growing bioethanol industry based on wheat and sugar. 2 nd generation processes are now being researched in order to build capacity and achieve breakthroughs in technical and economic barriers through the new SUPERGEN Bioenergy programme, which includes collaboration with key European players.”

Professor Julia Goodfellow, Chief Executive, Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC), said:

“I am naturally disappointed that BP has chosen to site the Energy Biosciences Institute in the USA. Notwithstanding this, there is clearly excellent and relevant research in the UK, both within the University sector and at two BBSRC-sponsored institutes: Rothamsted Research and the John Innes Centre. BBSRC is committed to funding an initiative in this area and hopefully there are also other companies out there wishing to explore opportunities in bioenergy.”