The Future of Corn Ethanol
Despite its growing popularity, corn-based ethanol will most likely not be the staple fuel source in the future, as it is only a short term solution and poses problems in the long run. Ethanol contains 33% less energy than gasoline, and corrodes engines that it is used in. Average production and final sales are 62 cents/gal higher than conventional gasoline. Other reasons that corn ethanol use is debatable in the future include health hazards, weather pressure, inflation, environmental impact, emissions, and energy balance.
Uncertainties about ethanol include oil prices and government policies. Governors of nearly a dozen states, including Texas, Maryland, and Virginia, requested a waiver for blending corn ethanol, claiming that it had a high negative impact upon food prices. Political pressure is also building to move the renewable fuel industry away from corn to non-food and non-feed-grain material, such a switch grass, sugar cane, cellulosic ethanol, and biomass. Even though political support is waning, Congress will most likely not abandon corn ethanol.
Uncertainties about ethanol include oil prices and government policies. Governors of nearly a dozen states, including Texas, Maryland, and Virginia, requested a waiver for blending corn ethanol, claiming that it had a high negative impact upon food prices. Political pressure is also building to move the renewable fuel industry away from corn to non-food and non-feed-grain material, such a switch grass, sugar cane, cellulosic ethanol, and biomass. Even though political support is waning, Congress will most likely not abandon corn ethanol.
"If we can produce more ethanol and bio-diesel to help fuel our vehicles, we will create jobs, boost local economies and produce cleaner burning fuels. This will keep dollars here at home where they can have a positive impact on our economy."
-Rick Renzi