What is Biomass?
Biomass is renewable organic material that comes from plants and other biological sources. These materials can be used to produce energy and renewable fuels, including ethanol.
In the United States, corn is the primary source used to produce fuel ethanol. The starch found in corn kernels is converted into sugars and fermented to produce ethanol. Other types of biomass, including agricultural residues such as corn stalks, grasses, and other plant materials, can also be used to produce biofuels.
For North Dakota, biomass connects agriculture and energy by creating opportunities to turn crops and other plant-based resources into renewable fuels and other valuable products.
Benefits of Biomass
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Provides a Renewable Resource
Biomass comes from plant materials that can be grown and replenished, providing a renewable resource for producing fuels, energy, and other products.
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Produces Renewable Fuels
Biomass is an important feedstock for biofuels such as ethanol. In the United States, corn is the primary feedstock used to produce fuel ethanol.
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Creates New Uses for Agricultural Materials
In addition to crops such as corn, biomass can include agricultural residues like corn stalks, grasses, and other plant fibers that have the potential to be converted into renewable fuels.
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Adds Value to Agriculture
Using crops and agricultural materials as biomass creates additional markets and opportunities for agricultural resources, connecting farmers with the growing biofuels and renewable energy industries.
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Diversifies our Energy Supply
Biomass can be converted into transportation fuels and other forms of energy, providing another domestic source of renewable energy.
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Supports Innovation
Research continues to explore new ways to convert plant fibers and other biomass materials into ethanol and other biofuels, creating opportunities for new technologies and uses for agricultural resources.
