Maximizing Bioenergy Resources in the Midwest

A variety of biomass to energy opportunities exist throughout the Midwest, with feedstocks ranging from energy crops to food waste to manure. Many of these biomass resources are currently not fully developed or utilized and state-led programming or incentives can help grow the industry.  Biomass can be converted to electricity and/or heat, used as a source of renewable natural gas, or provide a variety of vehicle fuels. A strong bioenergy market could result in local economic development as well as provide a range of potential environmental benefits.

In-Person Meeting

October 11-12, 2017
Iowa City, Iowa

The meeting took place in Iowa City, Iowa and was a combination of selected high-level speakers and attendee discussion to synthesize lessons learned. 

The MGA Smartland Series will discuss strategies related to:

  • securing a sustainable biomass supply,

  • improving the efficiency of biomass processing and conversion,

  • expanding the bioenergy market, and

  • creating inclusive biomass business models capturing the ag/energy/water nexus.

Webinars

In the lead-up to the summit, the MGA hosted a series of webinars to highlight critical components of the topic

September 14, 2017

Regional Economic Benefits of Bioenergy

This webinar focused on the economic benefits and potential of the Bioenergy sector in the Midwest.

August 31, 2017

State Bioenergy Profiles and Case Studies

This webinar featured presentations from Shelly Peterson from the Iowa Development Authority and Maria Redmond from Wisconsin’s Office of Energy Innovation.

July 20, 2017

The Economic Development Case for Biomass

This webinar featured a presentation and discussion on the benefits of biomass in the Midwest. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of why biomass is useful, where it is being implemented and by whom, and what barriers exist to further implementation.

Dr. Matthew Langholtz, Oak Ridge National Laboratory