§8112. Forest biomass for energy
(a) In general
The Secretary, acting through the Forest Service, shall conduct a competitive research and development program to encourage use of forest biomass for energy.
(b) Eligible entities
Entities eligible to compete under the program under this section include-
(1) the Forest Service (acting through Research and Development);
(2) other Federal agencies;
(3) State and local governments;
(4) Indian tribes;
(5) land-grant colleges and universities; and
(6) private entities.
(c) Priority for project selection
In carrying out this section, the Secretary shall give priority to projects that-
(1) develop technology and techniques to use low-value forest biomass, such as byproducts of forest health treatments and hazardous fuels reduction, for the production of energy;
(2) develop processes that integrate production of energy from forest biomass into biorefineries or other existing manufacturing streams;
(3) develop new transportation fuels from forest biomass; and
(4) improve the growth and yield of trees intended for renewable energy production.
(d) Authorization of appropriations
There is authorized to be appropriated to carry out this section $15,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2009 through 2012.
(
Codification