Harrisburg 1/23/2011 11:37:25 AM
News / Education

OriginOil to Sponsor HU's BioEnergy Summit

OriginOil, Inc. (OOIL), the developer of a breakthrough technology to transform algae, the most promising source of renewable oil, into a true competitor to petroleum, is among the sponsors of the upcoming BioEnergy Summit set for March 15, 2011

OriginOil, Inc. (OOIL), the developer of a breakthrough technology to transform algae, the most promising source of renewable oil, into a true competitor to petroleum, is among the sponsors of the upcoming BioEnergy Summit set for March 15, 2011, at Harrisburg University of Science and Technology in PA.

With its theme of Innovative Technologies for an Energized Future!, the Summit will explore innovative nanotechnologies for bioenergy production and technologies for producing energy from wastewater. Additionally, the commercialization of technologies and processes used to produce bioenergy from a variety of biomass resources also highlights this half-day program.

Additional sponsors of the event, include the Lehigh Nanotechnology Network and Lehigh University.

The keynote speaker for the event is Dr. William Goldner of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Institute of Food and Agriculture (NIFA).  He will give an overview of the strategic thinking and programs USDA NIFA and other USDA agencies are using to address the sustainable production of biofuels, biopower, and biobased products. The programs include: regional systems-oriented programs that integrate research, education, and extension/outreach/ technology transfer; pre-commercialization R&D for small businesses; and grant and loan guarantee programs for demonstration and commercialization.  

Dr. Goldner will provide some examples of how businesses may use these programs to take part in this important renewable energy sector. He will discuss the need to include emerging technologies such as nanotechnology and waste water management in developing bioenergy and the need for a thoughtful integrated approach to grow bioenergy, water quality and availability management systems, and perhaps other emerging energy resources (e.g. natural gas) in Pennsylvania and the surrounding region without disrupting existing agricultural systems, natural resources, and rural communities.

Roundtable discussions will examine the business opportunities that can be cultivated, why sustainable energy solutions are as good for business as they are for the environment, and the importance of obtaining financial support to the commercialization process. Scientists, government officials, entrepreneurs and investors will discuss promising research, successful ventures, overcoming commercialization challenges and market-driven opportunities.  

The program is set to run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.   Cost is $35.  More information is found online at http://www.HarrisburgU.edu/BioEnergySummit   For additional information, email BioEnergy@HarrisburgU.edu or call Dr. Leena Pattarkine at 717.901.5168.

Harrisburg University is located at 326 Market Street in Harrisburg.  The Harrisburg Parking Authority operates a garage accessible via Fourth Street. Cost for parking in the garage is $4.00 for 0-2 hours.  Kiosk for parking accepts cash only.  More information on parking rates and directions to the University are found online at http://www.harrisburgu.net/campuslife/directions.php#parking

About OriginOil, Inc.

OriginOil, Inc. is developing a breakthrough technology that will transform algae, the most promising source of renewable oil, into a true competitor to petroleum. Much of the world's oil and gas is made up of ancient algae deposits. Today, our technology will produce "new oil" from algae, through a cost-effective, high-speed manufacturing process. This endless supply of new oil can be used for many products such as diesel, gasoline, jet fuel, plastics and solvents without the global warming effects of petroleum. Other oil producing feedstock such as corn and sugarcane often destroy vital farmlands and rainforests, disrupt global food supplies and create new environmental problems. Our unique technology, based on algae, is targeted at fundamentally changing our source of oil without disrupting the environment or food supplies.

About Harrisburg University

Founded in 2001 to address Central Pennsylvania’s need for increased opportunities for study leading to careers in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields, Harrisburg University is an innovative and ambitious private institution that produces graduates who provide increased competence and capacity in science and technology disciplines to Pennsylvania and the nation. Harrisburg University ensures institutional access for underrepresented students and links learning and research to practical outcomes. As a private University serving the public good, Harrisburg University remains the only STEM-focused comprehensive university located between Philadelphia and Pittsburgh.

For more information on the University's demand-driven undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs in applied science and technology fields, call 717.901.5146 or email Connect@HarrisburgU.edu.