In many ways, Oklahoma is the intersection between agriculture and energy, placing Oklahoma State University on the frontlines in developing new technologies that increase the efficiency of or create new energy sources.

 

Since the mid-20th Century, the need to diversify America’s energy resources has never been more vital. In 1970, approximately 70% of the oil used in the United States came from domestic sources. In 2007, that number had declined to 35%. Adoption of new technologies and practices relating to oil and crude and refined products derived from petroleum have steadily reduced U.S. dependency on oil imports. While American energy and petroleum use policies have been constantly evolving, and the U.S. seems to be better positioned to meet petroleum-based needs, our industries are not self-sufficient, and there is more work to be done.

 

Since the early 1990s, our future-minded, multidisciplinary, multi-institutional OSU Biofuels Team has been committed to conducting basic and applied research necessary to making renewable energy crops a practical enhancement of the nation’s energy portfolio. OSU was particularly well-positioned to take a lead role in helping the U.S. become a viable biobased economy, with leadership and expertise in every aspect of biofuels research and development. While the renewable energy space has evolved since the center was founded, challenges still remain. BioPEC is still vital and committed to pursuing a leadership role in progressing the U.S. in becoming a viable biobased economy.