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IGPC Ethanol Inc.
P.O. Box: 205
Aylmer, Ontario
N5H 2R9
P: 1-866-211-0435
P: 519-765-2575
F: 519-765-2775
info@igpc.ca
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Questions & Answers
The production of fuel ethanol is a way for farmers to add value to their corn through the ownership of a processing plant. It is an opportunity to participate in the fuel industry, which is a growth industry, versus producing a basic farm commodity. Ethanol is made from renewable resources, reduces harmful emissions in gasoline, and creates jobs and economic activity in the local community.
Increasing corn processing capacity in Ontario will increase the demand for Ontario corn. Economic impact studies have shown that the basis for corn increases by 5 – 10 cents per bushel within the 80 km radius of a fuel ethanol plant. Of more significance, is the opportunity for IGPC members to participate directly in a major value added opportunity and expanding industry.
Fuel ethanol (ethyl alcohol) is a high octane, water-free alcohol produced from the fermentation of sugar or converted starch. It is traditionally used as a blending ingredient at 5% to 10% concentrations in gasoline. Ethanol is made primarily from grains or other renewable agricultural products. Ethanol also has a variety of food and industrial uses.
Ethanol production yields large quantities of distillers grain. This grain, which can be used both wet and dry, is a high protein feed suitable for livestock. A third product created during ethanol production is carbon dioxide. Carbon dioxide is used in many food preparations as well as other industrial processes.
Grain corn is readily available on the world market and the infrastructure or transportation and handling systems are in place to move large quantities of corn. Corn yields are increasing at a rapid rate because of the considerable research that is done on corn, the introduction of new varieties and more efficient farming practices. In addition, the technology to produce fuel ethanol from grain corn has been researched and well developed over the past 10 to 15 years, making it possible to take advantage of the latest technologies.
Our Aylmer facility has easy access to Highway #73, has rail access, and it is located close to its markets – close to livestock to sell distillers grains; close to the market for carbon dioxide; and within easy access via the 401 and rail to the GTA for the sale of ethanol. IGPC is also located in the heart of Ontario’s grain corn production area.
Studies of existing ethanol plants in the U.S. have measured the economic impact of ethanol manufacturing plants in the 80 kilometres surrounding the plant. Using these models, IGPC estimates that it generates $90 million of direct and $175 million direct and indirect economic activity in its surrounding area.
Approximately 150 jobs were created during construction. The plant is staffed by a dedicated team of 42 full-time employees. Many of the jobs require secondary school education in biological processes and engineering.
IGPC uses about 1,700 litres of water per minute. All process water remains in the process and is recycled internally. Any discharge from the plant will be stormwater and water that does not come into contact with production materials (such as that used in the boiler and cooling tower).
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