UofL planting hemp for energy research

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (AP) – The University of Louisville is planting two types of industrial hemp and another fiber call kenaf to research their potential as renewable energy resources.

A statement from the university says the crops are being planted at the Conn Center for Renewable Energy Research to support biofuels research that uses Kentucky-grown plants. It will be part of the Kentucky Department of Agriculture’s Industrial Hemp Research Pilot Program.

Greg Postel, interim president of UofL, says researchers are seeking “unusual answers to renewable energy questions.”

The research will focus on the potential for the crops to fulfill energy needs and become a replacement source for fibers, biofuels and other chemical production.

Copyright 2017 The Associated Press.