August 9, 2006

NextGen Energy plans to build two ethanol plants in US state Michigan

NextGen Energy LLC on Tuesday (Aug 8) announced plans to build two ethanol plants in Michigan.

One plant will be in Watervliet in Berrien County and the other will be in McBain in Missaukee County. Southfield-based NextGen Energy said it has received preliminary site plan approval for both plants and is obtaining permits for both.

Each plant will employ 40 people and will produce 50 million gallons of ethanol annually, NextGen Energy said in a statement.

Ethanol commonly is made from corn. About four million vehicles now on the road can run on gasoline or E85, a blend of 85 percent ethanol and 15 percent gasoline. Supporters of E85 say it can reduce oil imports, cut emissions and help farmers.

"These plants are a win-win for Michigan and for the communities in which they will be built," Todd A. Wyett, chief executive of NextGen Energy, said in a statement. "They will help our economy, create new jobs, positively impact the environment, lower fuel costs and reduce our reliance on external sources for energy."

Michigan has existing ethanol plants in Caro and Albion, and at least two others besides those announced by NextGen Energy are planned, according to the Renewable Fuels Association.