The economics of producing biodiesel from algae

被引：104

作者：

Gallagher, Brian J. ^{[1
]}

机构：

[1] Ecoton Environm Scientists, Los Angeles, CA 90067 USA

来源：

RENEWABLE ENERGY | 2011年 / 36卷 / 01期

关键词：

Renewable fuels; Algae; Biodiesel; Economics; Net present value; Return on investment;

D O I：

10.1016/j.renene.2010.06.016

中图分类号：

X [环境科学、安全科学];

学科分类号：

083001 [环境科学];

摘要：

Biodiesel is an alternative fuel for conventional diesel that is made from natural plant oils, animal fats, and waste cooking oils. This paper discusses the economics of producing biodiesel fuel from algae grown in open ponds. There is potential for large-scale production of biodiesel from algal farms on non-arable land; however, previous studies have failed to demonstrate an economically viable process that could be scalable to a commercialized industry. The problems include inconsistent and insufficient algal productivities, uncertain capital and operating costs, volatile market prices and unknown levels of government support. Although intensive work is being done on many technological issues, the economic studies and data are incomplete and out of date. This paper presents an updated financial analysis of the production and economic conditions that could have a profound effect on the success of this important alternative fuel production process. (c) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

引用

页码：158 / 162

页数：5