According to the companies, the facility is one of the world’s first and largest second generation ethanol demonstration biorefineries. Genencor’s Accellerase enzymes are used in the plant’s process for converting straw to fuel.
Genencor launched Accellerase 1500 and three accessory products in April 2009, and is expected to introduce a new generation of Accellerase in 2010. The Dong/Inbicon technology will provide ethanol for E85 fuel (85% ethanol), which will fill the tanks of cars for the UNFCCC Global Climate Summit in Copenhagen, from December 7 to 18.
Tom Knutzen, CEO Danisco, said: “As a supplier of enzymes for the plant, we have followed the construction phase with anticipation. Danisco is driving the future of enzymes for 2nd-generation biofuel through our sales to players like Dong and others, and through our other collaboration, the joint venture DuPont Danisco Cellulosic Ethanol (DDCE).”
Michael Persson, VP finance and corporate affairs at Inbicon, said: “It has taken years of testing, perfecting, and patenting the biomass conversion process to reach this phase of large-scale commercial demonstration. It’s a great advantage to work with Danisco, and our other suppliers, as collaborators in driving the future of biofuels innovation.
“Together we’ll play a vital role in making the shift to cost effective renewable fuels, building the low-carbon economy, and creating economic growth opportunities through advanced biorefineries.”
The Kalundborg facility will work on scaling up the process to commercial volumes. Annual production includes 5.4m liters (1.5m gallons) of biofuel, lignin pellets and molasses.
