Roger Stroud, Executive Chairman of Algae.Tec

Algae.Tec is an Australian algae company focusing on commercializing modular algal growth systems. Recently, they announced they were partnering with an ethanol plant in New South Wales to conduct a demonstration project. Roger Stroud, the Executive Chairman of Algae.Tec answered a few questions about this demo plant and the future of his company.

1. What are Algae.Tec’s main goals with this demonstration plant in Nowra, New South Wales?

The primary goal is to obtain independent, third party validation of the company’s technology, which has been internally proven. A secondary goal is to continue the operation of the facility to test further innovations recently developed.

2. Using Algae.Tec’s system, how much algae do they predict they will be able to produce this this demonstration plant?

The internal pilot plant studies indicated that the McConchie-Stroud system can produce in excess of 250 tonnes of dry algae per annum, based upon continuous operation.

3. Why have you decided to put your demo plant by an ethanol plant rather than a different source of CO2?

The ethanol fermenters were the closest source of CO2 from the industrial food complex. However, all CO2 is the same.

4. Are there any benefits in having the demo plant in Australia rather than the U.S. where you also have operations?

This happened to be the site chosen. However, the US would be just as good. In fact the US may be the site of the first commercial facility. However, this has yet to be decided.

5. If this demonstration plant proves successful, what is the next step for Algae.Tec?

We are totally confident about the outcome. The next step will be the construction of a commercial facility

6. How important are demonstration plants in the process towards commercialization?

The capital expenditure for the first commercial facility will be predominantly equity in risk nature. The providers of these funds will need the independent validation as part of their risk assessment procedure.

7. What advice would you give to algae companies looking to initiate their our demonstration plants?

Most systems outside the pond methods are unique. The first step is to internally validate the system, and determine whether the outcome can be a viable one. Only then should you go to the next step of third party validation via a demonstration plant.

Roger Stroud
Executive Chairman
Algae.Tec
http://algaetec.com.au/