Georgia, America’s leading source of sustainable biomass, boasts an abundance of renewable natural resources such as pine trees and agricultural products, as well as waste streams from industrial processes. Ranked third in the U.S. for its bio fuel potential, Bioenergy is projected to pump nearly five billion dollars into the state’s economy over the next 10 years.
Funding Opportunities
Georgia is determined to assist eligible companies with funding opportunities by pairing proposed production facilities with end users such as military bases or industrial plants that can result in long-term contracts and strengthen the organization’s financial position, leveraging the potential for expansion. Also, through the state’s incentives, matching research grants, low-interest loans, and access to venture capital organizations, companies in Georgia are given a competitive advantage in the evolving marketplace of renewable energy.
A New Frontier for Renewable Energy
Identified as one of Georgia’s strategic industries, the renewable energy sector is poised for significant growth in the state. Georgia’s plentiful bioenergy feedstocks such as plantation pine and agricultural residues including peanut hulls, blemished peaches and Vidalia onions, and pecan shells provide valuable resources for companies in the renewable energy industry. The state boasts 10 million acres of agricultural land, and ranks first in the U.S. for commercial timberland (and No. 2 in total timberland)—the leading competitive resource for biomass energy. With the abundance of sustainable products, Georgia can help companies succeed in the emerging energy trends including wood pellet production, waste-to-energy, and next generation fuels. Georgia is also home to the most extensive rail system in the Southeast and the fastest-growing port (Port of Savannah), providing companies in the renewable energy business with built-in efficiencies for transporting goods and materials to Europe.
Research & Technology
The Georgia Center of Innovation (COI) for Energy serves as a vital and central resource for businesses seeking an advantage in the production of renewable energy and alternative fuels in Georgia. The COI for Energy provides innovative businesses in the energy sector with direct access to cutting-edge research at Georgia universities and other prime research facilities. Known for its Bioenergy One Stop Shop, the Center works with pre-qualified businesses to join them with representatives from more than 20 state and federal agencies. Companies are given the opportunity each month to present their bio-energy projects and leave with materials to streamline their start up or growth process.
Do you want to learn more about how Georgia can help you in the field of Energy & the Environment? Please contact Anne Stafford at 404-962-4178 or astafford@georgia.org.
Related Sites:
Agriculture Pollution Prevention (AgP2) Program
Georgia Institute of Technology
Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority
Pollution Prevention Assistance Division