ENID —
Enid once was chosen as the site of two ethanol plants, but before construction could begin, both projects were placed on hold.
Now it appears there is no future for ethanol in the Enid-Garfield County area.
Local officials say the market for ethanol is not conducive to construction of new plants. City Manager Eric Benson said there is nothing to indicate ethanol will be a feasible option.
“There is nothing on the horizon for Enid, no proposals or concerns we are pursuing. It appears the issue has taken a very back burner,” Benson said.
Exploration into the ethanol market began in the 1970s when the United States placed an embargo on gasoline supplies from foreign countries, according to a report on the history of ethanol in America by Oklahoma State University.
At the turn of the century higher fuel prices and global warming concerns spiked that interest again. In 2006 there were 112 ethanol plants, mostly in the Midwest, producing about 5 billion gallons of ethanol.
Ethanol is considered by some a popular alternative because unlike gasoline it is biodegradable. It quickly breaks down into harmless substances if spilled.
When small amounts of ethanol are added to gasoline, usually less than 10 percent, there are many advantages, according to the OSU study. Ethanol reduces the amount of carbon monoxide emissions and other toxic pollution. It keeps engines running smoothly without the need for lead or other chemical additives. Because it is made from crops that absorb carbon dioxide and emit oxygen, it helps reduce the total volume of greenhouse gas emissions, the study said.
But despite the benefits, the costs associated with producing ethanol and market prices available changed the economic outlook for ethanol.
Enid and Garfield County have gone from possibly being a center of ethanol activity, to having none and none in the future.
“Our research indicates there is not a feasible option for Enid right now,” Benson said.
Agriculture and Energy
Related Photos
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This site in northern Enid once was the chosen location for an ethanol plant before plans to build facilities in Garfield County were abandoned. (File Photo)
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This site in northern Enid once was the chosen location for an ethanol plant before plans to build facilities in Garfield County were abandoned. (File Photo)
Discussion
Local plans for ethanol run out of fuel
- Agriculture and Energy
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