Since 2006 when the Sunflower Integrated Bioenergy Center concept was announced, Sunflower has seen significant changes in the markets for ethanol and biodiesel, Â resulting in a slow down in new facility development that has placed the integrated bioenergy model on hold. We are optimistic that interest and support for renewable fuels will return to these markets to allow for the integrated concept to be proven.
In the meantime Sunflower Integrated Bioenergy, LLC, continues to pursue developments in the use of the carbon stream from power plant flue gas for value-added products.
Integrated Bionenergy Model
With national attention focused on promoting biofuels production, strengthening rural economies, reducing dependence on overseas oil, and taking action to reduce CO2 emissions, the Sunflower Integrated Bioenergy Center is being developed on the site of Sunflower Electric Power Corporation’s Holcomb Station, a 362-MW coal-based power plant located in Finney County, Kansas.
The Center will integrate several commercial businesses and near-commercial bioenergy technologies. These subsystems will be individually owned by participants within the complex. The subsystems include an ethanol plant, a biodiesel plant, a dairy, an anaerobic digester, an algae reactor, and a coal-based power plant.
Each subsystem will benefit from the efficiencies of integration like the re-use of water, consumption of co-products, roads, railways, shared human resources, and the utilization of power plant flue gas. The reduction of transportation and disposal costs for co-products will further add to the cost effectiveness of each individual subsystem.
The location of the Center in southwest Kansas on the 10,000 acres surrounding Sunflower’s power plant is advantaged by a strong livestock and agriculture industry, excellent transportation infrastructure, reasonable energy prices, and rural work ethic that is combined with the pioneering spirit of the region.