Source: Tom Johnston, Meatingplace.com, March 30

As turmoil rocks the Middle East and North Africa and energy costs soar, President Obama said today the nation’s long-term energy security will depend on creating alternative fuels including corn-based ethanol and other biofuels.

Obama made the comments in an address he delivered at Georgetown University in Washington. At the same time, his administration released what it is calling a “Blueprint for A Secure Energy Future.” 

In addition to natural gas, U.S.-made renewable biofuels will help reduce America’s dependence on oil from turbulent regions in the world, the president said. Over the next two years the federal government will be helping entrepreneurs break ground on four next-generation biorefineries, each with a capacity of more than 20 million gallons per year. 

“If anyone doubts the potential of these fuels, consider Brazil,” Obama said in a prepared remarks. “Already, more than half – half – of Brazil’s vehicles can run on biofuels.”

Obama also said finding and producing more oil in the United States will be crucial in cutting dependence on imports. His admistration is encouraging offshore oil exploration and production – “as long as it’s safe and responsible.”

To view a fact sheet on the policy, click here.

Go to www.meatingplace.com for more stories.