How the IRmadillo can help improve CI scores
In the world of renewable fuel production, sustainability isn’t just an environmental concern—it’s a pathway to profitability. Carbon Intensity (CI) scores measure emissions across the entire fuel life cycle, and lowering these scores can unlock millions in through rebates like the 45Z tax credit. An increase in ethanol yield by 0.01 gallons/bushel can reduce CI scores by ~0.085 gCO2 equivalent/MJ. with this you could be earning a rebate of ~$0.0018 per gallon of ethanol. For a plant producing 100 million gallons per year, this equates to $180,000 annually
However, to qualify for any financial gain, ethanol plants must consistently operate below a CI score of 47.4 gCO₂ equivalent/MJ and there are additional bonuses for hitting prevailing-wage + apprenticeship bonus. While various strategies can be employed to improve efficiency, real-time monitoring tools such as the IRmadillo™ provide additional insights to support these improvements.
Enhancing Ethanol Yield:
Process refinements during fermentation can help operators maximize ethanol yield. Early detection of bacterial interference and proper nutrient management contribute to stable production, supporting lower CI scores. Real-time monitoring solutions, like the IRmadillo™, may assist in tracking key parameters.
Optimizing Dosing & Process Efficiency with the IRmadillo:
Efficient use of urea, ammonia, and enzymes plays a key role in reducing waste and energy consumption. Monitoring sugar conversion and microbial activity helps producers optimize feedstock utilization while improving overall output. While tools like the IRmadillo™ can assist in providing real-time data.
Streamlining Distillation & Corn Oil Recovery with the IRmadillo:
Distillation is energy-intensive, and inefficiencies can drive up CI scores. Adjusting column parameters and ethanol recovery strategies helps maintain production efficiency. Similarly, effective evaporator management enhances corn oil recovery, contributing to a lower overall CI. Technologies like the IRmadillo™ can offer additional monitoring capabilities.
By implementing strategic refinements across the ethanol production process, plants can reduce their CI scores, enhance sustainability, and boost profitability. Real-time monitoring tools, including the IRmadillo™, may aid operators by providing actionable data that help your plant run smoother.