March 19, 2007

Russia to produce biofuel from grain and rapeseed
 

Russia is going to build two plants to produce biofuel, said Russian Minister of Agriculture Alexander Gordeyev and  construction of the bioethanol-processing plant has already started in Omsk.  The other plant engaged in biodiesel production will be built in the western part of the country.

The minister noted that the EU expects biofuel to make up no less than 5.75 percent of the total motor-fuel volume by 2010. Therefore, Russia intends to supply Europe with either raw materials or biofuel; the second variant implies biodiesel (produced form rape) and bioethanol (produced from grain). Currently the negotiations on supplies of raw materials to Europe are being held, added the Minister.