As the debate over ethanol heats up with creation of a federal biofuels working group and a new Renewable Fuel Standard, a Texas company has made it easier for businesses, farms and municipalities to produce their own.



The systems could benefit companies who want to use alternative fuels in their fleets, potentially save money and simplify their supply chains, but face challenges with the limited availability.

Dallas-based Allard Research and Development LLC unveiled the mini refineries capable of producing 100, 200, 500 or 1,000 gallons of ethanol per day, depending on the model. The systems are available in either automated or manual versions.



The fully automated versions include 15-inch touch-screen LCD monitors and iPhone remote control monitoring capability. The systems include stainless steel fermentation, output collection and cooling water tanks, as well as a feature that captures and stores carbon dioxide produced from the fermentation process.

Advanced sensors track temperature, pressure, and liquid levels; the systems also have integrated fire suppression technology.

The company said its philosophy is rooted in self-sufficiency, which fuels its drive to create closed-loop systems for growing food and producing fuel. Allard is working on a book that describes how a 300-square foot swath of land can sustain one person utilizing in-ground fish tanks, hydroponically grown vegetables, a greenhouse, and other technologies.