Seaweeds, also known as macroalgae, are an emerging biomass resource with unique benefits compared to land-based biomass systems. However, they are underutilized and are difficult to convert due to their variability, unique chemical make-up, and storage instability. Overcoming these conversion challenges will help build algae biomass supply chains, accelerate their demand, and ultimately, drive the U.S. bioeconomy by enabling greater volumes of sustainable aviation fuel and carbon dioxide conversion to algae.
“To meet our nation’s sustainable fuel needs, we need to tap into the wide variety of biomass resources that are unique to different regions of the country,” said Jeff Marootian, the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for the Office Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy. “Learning how to better convert and utilize feedstocks like seaweed allows us to expand the bioeconomy and cut greenhouse gas emissions in the process.”
A wide range of biomass resources, such as readily available seaweeds and wet waste feedstocks, will be critical to reach the Biden-Harris administration’s decarbonization goal of an equitable, clean energy future of net-zero emissions, economy-wide by no later than 2050.
Aligning with BETO and FECM’s strategic program goals, the FOA will fund selected projects in two focus areas:
Both topic areas contribute to BETO’s strategic goals for SAFs and other low-carbon bioproducts, as well as FECM’s aims to use CO2 emissions to grow algae and convert these feedstocks into low-carbon agricultural bioproducts.
BETO anticipates making approximately five to six financial assistance awards lasting from 24 to 36 months under this FOA. FECM intends to award three to four financial assistance awards that will run up to 24 months in length.
