An energy company in Lousiana, USA, called “Aquatic Energy” is making progress in the production of algae oil from micro-algae in open pond systems. The company which formerly had less than a hectare, will slowely expand into a 12 hectare demonstration project plant, which will yield about 9500 litres per hectare (approx. 4000 squared metres).
Interestingly enough more than 70% of the CO2 comes from the atmosphere and the remaining 30% is being generated from the natural gas burned in the algae plant itself (used for drying the algae). Clay soils are used as opposed to lining which makes the ponds less expensive and easier to maintain.
Mr. David Johnston the CEO of Aquatic Energy chose the location of Louisiana due to the fact that rainfall exceeds evaporation rate, giving him free access to water resources, on top of that the former rice cultivation plants which have the clay soil base are suitable for the algae growth.
Tony Piccolo – Aquatic Biofuels Specialist, Rome-Italy
Aquatic Biofuel Specialist
