(Big Stone City, SD) — Sioux Falls-based POET is turning to new technology to stay competitive and cleaner in the ethanol game. POET is partnering with California company Antora and Minnesota-based Otter Tail Power to launch a new clean energy project near its Big Stone City plant. The plan uses thermal batteries to store heat which is then turned into steam and piped into the ethanol plant, cutting emissions and helping POET qualify for federal tax credits. Otter Tail is asking state regulators to approve power agreements for both Antora and POET, with a vote set for July 15th. The move comes after South Dakota banned CO2 pipeline projects, pushing POET to find new ways to lower its carbon intensity score and stay in the low-carbon fuel market.
