A Technical Note on Ethanol as a Motor Fuel

This technical note presents basic background information on the technology, economic forces, and non-market issues that affect ethanol’s supply, distribution, and demand. While it recognizes significant controversies, it does not attempt to summarize or resolve the national conversation about ethanol, which in 2006 included many voices and remained highly charged. The note is structured to begin with the basic process of producing ethanol, where it also presents other undisputed information about the current state of ethanol production, distribution, and usage. It then explores trends, projections, and disputes about contemporary technology. The note then discusses emerging innovations, and it concludes with an exploration of several non-market issues associated with ethanol in the United States.