Sapphire Energy is a San Diego company that turns algae into fuel. To date, it claims to have created such a fuel that meets quality standards, is compatible with current gasoline-manufacturing infrastructure, and achieves a 91-octane rating. According to a December 7 report from McClatchy Newspapers syndicate, Sapphire CEO Jason Pyle cited opposition from proponents of other alternative fuel types (including corn/ethanol and soy/biodiesel) as a major obstacle to the funding his company-and the industry he represents-would need to bring algae fuel to mass production. “We are up against formidable opposition from competing interests,” said Pyle. Referring to the need to aggressively gain audience with the incoming Obama administration, Pyle said, “We are approaching the final opportunity to grab a seat on the energy train.” According to the news story, algae-based fuel, which could also be blended with traditional fuels such as diesel or jet-A, was exhibited at last summer’s Farnborough Air Show in the UK, where it attracted the attention of airlines and manufacturers, alike.
Our ‘Great Green Hope’ Might Just Be … Pond Scum
Key Takeaways:
- Sapphire Energy has developed an algae-based fuel that meets quality standards, achieves a 91-octane rating, and is compatible with current gasoline manufacturing infrastructure.
- The company faces significant opposition and funding challenges from proponents of competing alternative fuel types like corn/ethanol and soy/biodiesel.
- Sapphire's CEO, Jason Pyle, emphasizes the critical need to secure support from the incoming Obama administration to bring algae fuel to mass production.
- Algae-based fuel has garnered interest from airlines and manufacturers, demonstrating its potential for blending with traditional fuels like diesel or jet-A.
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