Web exclusive posted March 10, 2008 at 4:14 p.m. CST
The Energy & Environmental Research Center, part of the University of North Dakota, will host "Biomass '08: Power, Fuels and Chemicals" on July 15-16 at the Alerus Center in Grand Forks, N.D. An exhibit show will also be part of the event.
In 2007, more than 400 registrants representing 232 organizations, 28 states and three foreign countries attended the workshop. This spurred the EERC to develop a larger conference, the International Biomass Conference & Trade Show, to be held in Minneapolis on April 15-17. The workshop in Grand Forks will have the same focus, just on a smaller scale.
Chris Zygarlicke, deputy associate director for research at the EERC, said the workshop will offer a wide variety of industry information. "Attendees will have an opportunity to hear presentations on the technical aspects of cutting-edge research and new technology developments leading to the economical utilization of biomass in our region," he said.
EERC Director Gerald Groenewold said times are changing for biomass, and many of today's energy technologies have become things of the past. "Biomass is no longer a long-range option for U.S. energy needs," he said. "It's a significant player. It has many near-term uses now, as seen in the ethanol and biodiesel industry, and holds hope as a large, globally sustainable, renewable resource."
The workshop is organized and coordinated by the EERC in conjunction with signature sponsor BBI International Inc., an industry leader in global biofuels.
The cost to attend the workshop is $225 per person, which includes access to all the technical sessions, the exhibit floor, workshop materials and meals.
Conference organizers are currently accepting abstracts for workshop presenters in a variety of topic areas. They are due by March 14.
For more information on becoming a presenter, an attendee or an exhibitor, visit
www.undeerc.org/Biomass08/.