Iowa Switchgrass Project
- Productive use of marginal lands
- Establish management practices for production of switchgrass as a potential alternative new crop
- Encourage rural economic growth and development
Applications
The results of this project will lead to the development of a biomass fuel industry in the Northern Plains.
Biomass Program
The three objectives of this project are:
- to demonstrate the technical aspects and overall viability of establishing a large-scale biomass supply;
- to develop implementation strategies that will create sustainable, economically-viable alternatives for the local agricultural economy, secondary industry opportunities, and support rural development efforts; and
- to establish the credibility of biomass power within the energy community and increase interest in renewable energy technology.
Research activities include: a wildlife impact study of switchgrass production and harvesting; an economic study to evaluate the potential of switchgrass as a profitable alternative to row crops; development of equipment and processes required for harvesting, handling, and co-firing switchgrass; co-fire testing of switchgrass, including evaluation of fuel and ash samples, boiler performance, and emissions generated; and deployment of technology at Alliant Power's Ottumwa Generating Station.