DA, DOE Seek Cheaper Feedstocks to Boost Local Ethanol Production

The Department of Agriculture (DA) and the Department of Energy (DOE) are exploring cheaper feedstocks to boost local ethanol production. This move aims to reduce import dependence and lower gasoline prices, with the goal of increasing the bioethanol blend from 10 percent to 15 percent.

Agriculture Secretary Francisco Tiu Laurel Jr. and Energy Secretary Sharon Garin met to discuss ways to lower feedstock costs and expand local ethanol production. They are considering using molasses and sugarcane juice from the sugar industry, as well as locally produced corn, as alternative feedstocks.

The DA noted that locally sourced feedstocks cost more than imported supplies, while locally produced bioethanol prices are double those of imported bioethanol. Tiu Laurel stated that the problem lies not in corn availability but in securing it at a price that makes ethanol commercially viable.