Minneapolis, May 24 – Twenty-seven high school students toured the Al-Corn Clean Fuel ethanol plant in Claremont on Wednesday, May 22 to gain a better understanding of renewable fuel production.
The students, from Austin High School, toured the various processes of ethanol production at the 125 million gallon-a-year facility.
“By getting a first-hand look at our operations, students are given a chance to see and understand the process of converting a homegrown renewable ingredient into clean energy,” said Randall Doyal, chief executive officer at Al-Corn Clean Fuel.
The students, from grades nine to 12, were from Austin High School's Plant Science and Introduction to Agriculture, Food and Natural Resources classes. During the tour, they learned about the different components of ethanol production such as incoming grain grading, grain handling, grain storage, liquefaction, fermentation, distillation, distiller grain drying, corn oil separation, product storage and product shipment.
The tour was organized by the Minnesota Bio-Fuels Association (MN Biofuels), a non-profit trade organization that represents the ethanol industry in Minnesota. Al-Corn Clean Fuel is a member of MN Biofuels.
“It’s important for students to learn about clean, Minnesota-produced, renewable energy and how it reduces harmful emissions and supports the local economy,” said Tim Rudnicki, executive director of the MN Biofuels.
Al-Corn Clean Fuel was built in 1995 and recently completed its $146 million modernization and expansion project in mid-2018. The plant regularly hosts tours of its facilities.
Austin High School's agriculture teacher, Linnay Schweisthal, accompanied her students during yesterday's tour.
“Ethanol and other renewable fuels are increasing in popularity because of availability and cost, giving the students the opportunity to see first-hand how fuel goes from a raw commodity to a usable fuel product will give them more knowledge to be an informed consumer. Ethanol is a large part of Minnesota's economy and all students will benefit from the availability of this renewable product,” Schweisthal said.