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Finding New Energy Sources

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By Gina Ford

Story Published: Jul 18, 2008 at 7:41 PM CDT

Story Updated: Jul 18, 2008 at 8:19 PM CDT

Some scientists think rural America can help curb energy costs.
Because of climbing prices, scientists are exploring other ways to create energy.

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The USDA held a forum Friday in Peoria to discuss the possibilities of Bio–energy. Scientists from across the country proposed ways to use Alfalfa, wheat straw, and switch grass to create energy and fuel.
The USDA's James Fischer says says an endless supply of energy is all around us.

"There's enough energy from the sun that reaches this nation in one hour that will supply all of the energy we need for one year," said Fischer.

How to capture that energy is the critical question. Through the energy independence Act of 2007, the nation is aggressively trying to stockpile 36 billion gallons of ethanol.

If scientists figure out how to use other types of crops to produce gas, Fischer says there may not be such a burden on corn products for consumers.