U.S. unveils funding for biofuels

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WASHINGTON, April 18 (UPI) -- The $30 million available to fund research and development of biofuels will help increase America's energy security, the U.S. energy secretary said.

U.S. President Barack Obama during his State of the Union address in January said he would like to see the country lead the international community in developing a clean-energy economy. The U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Energy announced they were offering $30 million in funding for biofuels to help with that effort.

"Producing renewable fuels from biomass right here in the United States will improve our nation's energy security and give us an innovative edge in the global market for clean energy technologies," said Energy Secretary Steven Chu in a statement.

The departments said advanced biofuels have half of the greenhouse gas emissions than conventional counterparts.

The funding targets biomass feedstocks, harvesting, transport and other logistical issues apart from research and development.

"Since taking office, the president has clearly articulated the goal to ensure a cleaner, safer and more secure energy future," added Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack.